by Craig Blodgett 
I was not sure how this would work… I was uncertain if anyone would think it was even a good idea. Was God in this? Was he leading me into this? It was something I had never done before. I decided to have "Parent Conferences" in the Student Ministry department. Recently I was at a youth ministry conference and I heard a parent share about the great experience she had in a conference meeting between her and her teenager’s youth pastor. That is a brilliant idea I thought to myself, but my concern was not whether I had the time or content to have these meetings, but whether or not parents would actually sign up to participate. Would parents give their time to meet with me or Meagan?
This was “new territory” for me. I have been in full time youth ministry for over 17 years and have never had lined up a month of parent conferences. Sure, I have had many parent meetings - but nothing like this. This was different. These conferences were to be an intentional time of hearing from parents regarding their child and a time to explore how we can partner together and be the body of Christ in raising the next generation.
After a few parent conferences had taken place, I realized these moments were an opportunity to process together what God was doing with the student and the family. They gave space to slow down from the daily routine and listen to the Holy Spirit. They allowed space for prayer and encouragement. They have given me, Meagan, and the parents an opportunity to take another step in our walk with Christ.
To my amazement, there was an overwhelming response in this process. All of the Jr. High parents and almost half of the High School parents signed up to meet with us. I have been blessed by the conversations I have had during these conferences. At the time I decided to do these conferences I was not completely sure if God was in it. Looking back I have no doubt God was giving me a little nudge to journey into this new territory. God was “all over” this and I am thankful to have walked in it with Him.