By now, many youth leaders and pastors have heard of orange, the concept of combining colors of yellow and red to form a new approach to church. Orange is about combining the passion we have for God with the passion we have for family, and consequently creating a better way forward that can help children, teenagers and young adults grow in their understanding of God and what God has for their lives. In essence, orange is a comprehensive approach to ministry in the church, one that does not disregard any age group, but brings people of cross-generations together to form a family of God.
Consider the orange concept in your ministry and how these ideas can impact how you do ministry. Are there new ways older adults and teenagers can come together to work toward common goals? Can teenagers also help the children in your congregation to grow in their faith? Are there intergenerational approaches to ministry that might be a powerful force in your community?
Orange doesn’t have to be a complete make-over. Orange also can be the way we bring varied ministries together to make each more effective. Orange can be the way we do church going forward.
Ponder these questions in your youth group sometime and see where you come out. Then ponder them again in the company of others who might bring new insights and energies to bear upon the whole. Sometimes a full cup of orange juice can energize our ministries and set us on a new course.
