When it comes to defining the age group of youth, there is no single, universal answer. The United Nations, however, has established a standard for statistical purposes, defining “young people” as those between 15 and 24 years of age. But when it comes to church youth groups, the age range is usually narrower, typically between 12 and 18 years old. Church youth groups are designed to help young people grow in their faith and spiritual understanding.
In some areas of the country, middle schools have been created as a budget-saving measure. This means that 6th graders are sent to junior high, which can lead to overcrowding in high school classrooms. While this is not an ideal situation, it does mean that these students are already familiar with each other. The church's youth organizations should work closely with the conference's youth ministry department. The Adventist Youth Ministries (AYM) is a program that works with and for young people.
According to AYM, young people should be encouraged to work together and with the wider church community to develop a strong youth ministry that focuses on spiritual, mental, and physical development of each individual. It should also include Christian social interaction and an active witnessing program that supports the church's mission of winning souls. The role of young people in today's church is an ever-evolving one. New movements within the church have brought about exciting events and opportunities for young people to get involved. Teaching church youth how to deepen their relationship with God prepares them to serve Christ in all aspects of their lives.
