As I was thinking about this post, I reflected on how my journey to becoming a pastor began – simple and sudden. I was at youth group one Sunday morning and after worship my youth pastor asked me, “Have you ever thought about becoming a pastor?” The question caught me off-guard. I’d never considered it, and the question set my 15-year-old mind on fire with possibilities. At an age full of uncertainty and insecurity, it was deeply encouraging to hear someone say, “I see this possibility in you.” As I thought about it over that next year, my answer was, “Yes. I could see myself becoming a pastor someday.”
That simple question was powerful. My youth pastor saw something in me – and he didn’t keep it to himself. That question lodged in my heart and stayed with me for years to come.
I have the honor now of working with Emerging Leaders here at Resurrection. These young adults are exploring how their gifts and God-given desires intersect with leadership opportunities in the Church’s ministry – whether in volunteer roles, governance, or vocational ministry.
As I’ve heard their stories and walked through this season with them, I’ve learned a few things that might be helpful to consider no matter the size or influence of your church.
Get To Know Them
I’ll admit – it can be intimidating. But the gap between Gen Z and other generations is only as wide as we let it be. When you see a young adult at your church, introduce yourself to them. Just be yourself and take time to hear their story – what they love, what they’re passionate about. You will only know if someone has a call to ministry on their life by spending time with them.
Invite Them to Participate
Young adults are flooded with advertising and marketing noise. They may not see your announcements, emails, or website – but they will respond to a personal invitation. If you believe a young adult might be gifted for ministry, ask them directly to serve in a specific way. A personal invite, whether in person or via text, is still your most powerful tool.
Offer An Internship
Even if it’s unpaid and just one person, you can offer a meaningful experience for college-age young adults. A good internship is an investment in their discernment – not free labor. Make it something they can proudly add to their resume and something that helps them listen for God’s call.
Ask the Question
If you think you see ministry potential in a young adult, ask: “Have you ever considered pastoral ministry?” Ask it from a place of relationship and trust, not as a sales pitch. If they say no, don’t let it change how you see them. Trust that the Holy Spirit is at work in their life.
It can be challenging to wait on the Lord in these matters. A few years after I said yes to that question, I left the church – and stayed away for 12 years. But when I returned, the call returned like it had never gone silent. After 18 years in ministry, I still trace it all back to that one simple question: “Have you ever considered being a pastor?”
David Andersen serves as the Leadership Development Program Director for all Resurrection locations and is a life-long Kansas City native. He’s been married over 30 years and has two adult sons. He loves composing music, learning new things, writing, running, and creating spaces where people can encounter God.