Multi-generational ministry is challenging, but also an incredible opportunity to honor Jesus and move his mission forward.

Multi-generational ministry is no piece of cake.

There are many factors that go into growing a healthy multi-generational church. It takes strategic thinking, a lot of time and patience, and a ton of prayer. But I absolutely believe it pleases Jesus and is an amazing opportunity to reflect the love, grace, and sacrifice of Jesus to your community.

Recently I wrote about the benefits of being a multi-generational church. Today I want to share with you four practical lessons I’ve learned along the way about serving, leading, and growing a multi-generational church.

1. Create connection opportunities

Before the start of this school year, our local elders sat down and thought through different connection opportunities for us to pursue.

We put on a college conference and encouraged families to donate tickets and volunteer throughout the weekend. At Thanksgiving, we paired up every college community group with a family community group so that they could share a meal together. And the Sunday before winter finals, families came to pray for students after our evening service.

Be creative when looking to create connection opportunities, and remember: the big win is the connecting, not necessarily the content.

Growing a healthy multi-generational church takes strategic thinking, a lot of time and patience, and a ton of prayer.

2. Celebrate together

When a student meets Jesus and is baptized at our evening service, the next Sunday we celebrate this with families at the morning service, and vice versa. This helps remind the church that we are a family, and families celebrate together!

3. Discourage “us” or “them” language

If you hear members of your church use “us” or “them” language, treat this as a great opportunity to remind them that we are not a family church or a college church, but Jesus’ church, which is made up of many different parts on one mission. This is something I say constantly.

Be creative when looking to create connection opportunities.

4. Use familial language

In everything I write and communicate, on Sundays or during the week, I make sure to use familial language. These subtle reminders help the church remember that we’re a family.

If your church contains multiple generations, don’t run from it. Instead, embrace the opportunity to be one church, with many parts, on one mission—the mission of Jesus.