For example, my friend felt it was important to have large events each week when teens could feel less threatened and could invite new friends to enter. These large weekly events were often fun, exciting or funny. As the largest doorway, this group was typically the largest in attendance.
Next, teens would be invited to enter other doors—next steps that might take them into smaller groups where they could ask questions, pray together, study together or receive more one-on-one help. These doorways were still large and inviting (and often fun), but they were also more demanding and were points of growth.
Finally, a third doorway was offered to those teens who were willing to take the next step of leadership—those teens who could lead others and help direct and organize the first doorways as well as lead their peers.
As you consider your own youth ministry, take a look at the various types of doorways you are offering. How are these serving the broader community of teens in your area? How can you create more of them? What are the next steps you need to take?
