Sexual Education Assessment Exercise

Gather (5 minutes)

• As participants arrive, give each person a name tag even if the assumption is that everyone knows each other.
• Make sure every participant has an equal place at the table.
• If using a handout for the scripture, give each person a copy or have participants find the passage in the Bible.
• Light the candle at the center of the table.

PRAYER: Together, read the following scripture passage.

Proverbs 1: 2-6 (NRSV)

For learning about wisdom and instruction, for understanding words of insight, for gaining instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity; to teach shrewdness to the simple, knowledge and prudence to the young— let the wise also hear and gain in learning, and the discerning acquire skill.

GREETINGS: Invite participants to share their name and role on the ministry assessment team (e.g. student leader, specialist from the congregation, parent, etc) and a word or phrase from the scripture reading that resonates with them. 

INTRODUCTION: Briefly thank the participants for committing their time and energy to assist the youth ministry program. Remind them that you have gathered the group to assess the various ways the youth ministry program addresses a wide variety of sexuality aspects. If you have not in the past discussed sexuality issues, consider sharing a holistic definition of sexuality which can be found in any of the additional recommended resources. It is important to name that sexuality is more than behaviors or sexual orientation, as many of the assessment topics will deal with issues like gender, body image, sexual abuse prevention, and access to information. In your own words, express to the participants why you feel called to provide holistic sexuality education to the teens in your ministry.