The ideal is to have a group where everyone feels loved and cared for, where youth can share their deepest joys and sorrows. It means so much to me. The reality is that most groups aren't anything like our hopes or dreams. Some youth groups are loving and kind while other groups grow apart through unkind words and deeds.
Youth groups are complex.
In every youth group there are dynamics at work that can potentially create division. Some youth will lead, some will follow. Other youth will rebel and not follow anyone. Some youth attend the group because their parents require it. Others are happy to be there whenever there is a planned event.