Youth
You came forward. That took courage — and you are not alone.
Maybe you came forward at a service, or maybe the thought just won't leave you alone. Either way: thank you for paying attention to it.
Nobody expects you to have this figured out. The goal right now is not to sign you up for anything. It is to help you keep listening, with people who are glad you're here.
What to actually do next.
- 1
Tell your pastor or youth leader
Say out loud, to one trusted adult at your church, that you're wondering about a call. That single conversation is the real first step.
- 2
Tell your family
Let your parents or guardians know you came forward. You don't have to have answers — just let them walk with you.
- 3
Stay close to your church
Keep showing up. Serve where you can — worship, missions, helping with younger kids. Notice where you feel most alive.
- 4
Ask about a discernment gathering
when you're readyMany conferences host events for young people exploring ministry. Ask your pastor whether yours does, and whether you can go.
The things worth naming honestly.
Your timeline is long, and that's good
Someone who comes forward at fourteen may not engage seriously until twenty-two. That is not falling behind — that is discernment. There is no clock.
Your family belongs in this
Your parents or guardians are not an obstacle to get around. The best version of this includes them — so tell them, and let the church talk with them too.
You can't make a wrong move here
Exploring a call is not a promise to become a pastor. You are allowed to wonder, to change your mind, and to wonder again.
Keep these in view.
- Don't let anyone rush you, and don't rush yourself.
- If a year goes by quietly, that's okay. The call keeps.
- Write down what draws you now — you'll want to read it again in ten years.
Your annual conference is the on-ramp.
Candidacy is run by your annual conference. We've mapped the on-ramps for Rio Texas and North Georgia — and how to find yours if it isn't listed yet.