I know that, over the years, student ministry workers have avoided being involved in associational meetings and gatherings. We have often looked at those meetings as simply where the “old guys” make decisions about our group of churches. At times, I have had that same mindset. However, that is a very limited view of what happens at associational meetings and gatherings.
There is great value in being involved in our association, whether it be the meetings or serving together in other formats. At a time when these meetings have declined in number and involvement, it is important to remember what these gatherings can mean, especially for those in student ministry:
• Associational connection gives us ministry partners. Over the past few years, I have worked with Joel Young of Summers Baptist Church in Summers and David McEuen of Temple Baptist Church in Rogers to host a See You After the Pole event. We are able to do more together than we could alone. It provides our students a way to gather with others and creates a ministry moment that exceeds what we could do alone.
• Associational connection gives us relationships. Over the years, I have had many friendships that have developed because of our shared ministry and theological backgrounds. For better or worse, our churches and people have their own unique traits. Whether it was during my days at Central Baptist College, the BMA Theological Seminary or meeting at an associational meeting, that shared history made it easier to connect. Student ministry can be a lonely place. We can feel like we are the only one that cares. It is important to understand that there are others in our group of churches that want the same things — to reach the next generation for Jesus.
• Associational connection gives us a clearer identity. Identity and culture are important. It is necessary to have a clear picture of who we are and what we stand for, and that understanding should always pour from our relationship with Christ and the Word of God. It is then filtered through your local congregation, but a clear understanding of the association (specifically, the BMA) can help us as we seek to share with our students about who we are. Our students need to know that they are not alone. For many years, SOAR was known as the largest annual gathering of BMA Baptists. The SOAR team has always done a good job of helping students understand what that means and why it is important. The connection with BMA Global and our other departments at the meeting helped students have a better understanding of that cultural identity.
As we look ahead at the state and national meetings, I encourage everyone to get involved with our work on a deeper level, especially if you work with students. Don’t let the unappealing aspects of these gatherings push you away from all the good it can do in your life and ministry.
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