Come Follow Me lessons offer a powerful opportunity for youth to deepen their understanding and love of the gospel. However, simply reading the scriptures isn't always enough to engage teenagers and young adults. This guide provides practical tips and resources to help youth leaders and teachers create dynamic and impactful Come Follow Me experiences.
Making Come Follow Me Relevant to Youth: Addressing Their Needs and Concerns
Youth today face unique challenges and questions. To make Come Follow Me lessons resonate, we need to address their specific concerns and interests. How can we bridge the gap between ancient scriptures and modern-day realities?
Connecting to Current Events: Relate scriptures to current events, social issues, or pop culture. For example, a lesson on forgiveness could discuss the importance of empathy in dealing with conflict seen in the news. This helps them see the relevance of gospel principles in their daily lives.
Interactive Learning: Ditch the lecture format! Utilize activities, discussions, group work, and technology to keep youth engaged. Games, role-playing, and creative projects can transform a potentially dry lesson into a memorable experience.
Encouraging Personal Testimony: Create a safe space for youth to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Encourage them to connect the scriptures to their lives and testify of what they learn.
Come Follow Me Lesson Helps: Resources and Activities
Several resources can enhance your Come Follow Me lessons. These aren't exhaustive, but they offer a starting point for enriching your teaching:
-
The Gospel Library App: This app provides access to scriptures, general conference talks, and other resources, making it easy for youth to access materials on their devices.
-
Visual Aids: Images, videos, and presentations can make the scriptures come alive. Think beyond simple text—use compelling visuals to illustrate key concepts.
-
Guest Speakers: Invite individuals with relevant expertise or inspiring stories to share their insights. This could be a young adult missionary, a community leader, or someone with a personal testimony related to the lesson's theme.
-
Service Projects: Incorporate service projects that relate to the week’s lesson. This allows youth to apply gospel principles directly and develop compassion and empathy.
Addressing Common Challenges in Teaching Youth
Youth can sometimes be disengaged or resistant to religious instruction. Here are some strategies to overcome these challenges:
H2: How Can I Make Come Follow Me Lessons More Engaging for Teens?
This is a frequent concern. The key is to present the material in a way that resonates with their interests and experiences. Use relatable language, incorporate technology, and allow for interaction and discussion. Don't be afraid to be creative and adapt the lesson to their specific needs.
H2: What are Some Creative Ways to Teach Come Follow Me to Youth?
Think outside the box! Use role-playing scenarios, create short films, write songs, design artwork, or use technology like podcasts or short videos to creatively illustrate scripture stories and principles. The more creative and engaging the activity, the more likely youth will retain the message.
H2: How Can I Help Youth Connect with the Scriptures in a Meaningful Way?
Encourage journaling, personal reflection, and prayer. Help them identify personal connections between the scriptures and their lives. Ask open-ended questions that prompt them to share their thoughts and feelings. Remember, making personal connections is vital for meaningful learning.
H2: How Can I Make Come Follow Me Lessons More Relevant to Modern Youth?
Focus on the timeless principles found in the scriptures. Show how these principles apply to current issues and challenges. Relate scripture stories to similar situations that teens might encounter in their lives today. Using real-life examples helps bridge the gap between ancient text and modern reality.
Conclusion: Fostering Faith and Testimony
By employing these strategies and resources, you can create meaningful and engaging Come Follow Me lessons that inspire youth to deepen their faith and build lasting testimonies. Remember, your role is not just to teach but to mentor, inspire, and help them connect with the Savior and His gospel. This requires patience, understanding, and a genuine love for the youth you serve.
