May Digital YouthWorker Journal
This issue of YouthWorker Journal focuses on THE BEST. Follow any of these three links:
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May 03, 2013
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Apr 10, 2013
Virtual Youth Worker Convention - in Spanish!
English
Liderazgo Juvenil is a youth leader training organization dedicated to training Spanish-speaking youth leaders across the United States and Latin America though seminars and resources made available via the internet on their website: www.liderazgojuvenil.com.
For the past thr
Apr 01, 2013
April YouthWorker Journal
This month,YouthWorker Journal’s mission is to help you learn more about how to do mission work with your students.
The Roundtable on Living Missionally to the Ends of the Earth contains information from Terry Linhart, Don Richter, Hilary Alan and Steve Corbett, while Brad Griffin and Kara Powell talk to you about Sticky Service. Jon Huckins shares about Cultivating Sent Ones; and Jeff discusses the fact that while youth are long on passion, they’re short on experience.
Meanwhile, Suanne Camfield wants to help you break the habits that no longer serve your youth group and develop new habits that work for your team.
Mar 29, 2013
Is Trivia Trivial?
With the recent surge of interest in the Bible – thanks to The History Channel’s “The Bible” series and GSN’s “The American Bible Challenge” game show – does knowing the number of times Delilah tricked Samson, or remembering the name of the guy whose ear Peter cut off or reciting the ag
Jan 07, 2013
The Power of Group Prayer
It turned out that Jimmy was suicidal.
Our youth staff team met with him after he had attended an outreach event we hosted at his high school. He later came to Christ, but his emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges were frankly, overwhelming to us at times.
Dec 12, 2012
Challenging Students to Excel No Matter the Setting
As a small city minister from central VT I am often asked why I spend so much time studying urban issues. I can totally understand this question because I must admit that I do spend an inordinate amount of time reading urban ministry books, blogs, and studies. This is a practice that started for me while at Moody Graduate School in Chicago and it is a direct result of my time studying theology, practice, and principles of urban ministry with my friend and mentor Dr. John Fuder.
Oct 30, 2012
Ministry Longevity
This year marks a milestone in my ministry that I frankly never thought I would see. When my church graduates our seniors this year, we will be graduating a class that I met as 1st graders.
As I finish my 11th year and enter my 12th here at Calvary Bible Church, I am astounded by how wonderfully blessed I have been to be a part of this family.
Apr 19, 2013
Why Student Pastors Need Other Student Pastors
I have been thinking about writing a post on this topic for a long time now because I believe it’s an important subject. Every time I think about this topic, Bill Withers classic song “Lean on Me” comes to mind. It’s true that as student pastors, we need other
Sep 01, 2012
September YouthWorker Journal
In this issue of YouthWorker Journal, you'll find the YWJ Roundtable on Leadership, articles from Duffy Robbins, Kara Powell and Jeff Mattesich, Carolyn Custis James, Robert Loane and Randy D. Reese, Jeff Tillson, and Leonard Sweet, as well as columns from Walt Mueller, Mark-O, Larry Magnuson, Syler Thomas, Barry Shafer and Tony Myles.
Aug 01, 2012
August YouthWorker Journal
You’ve probably heard the question: Why can’t today’s kids just grow up?
In this digital issue of YouthWorker Journal, we get answers from Chap Clark, Robert Epstein, Amy Jacober, Jeffrey Arnett, Lauren Winner, Kelly Lashly, Jeff Baxter, Rick Dunn and Jana Sundene.
Some people call the new reality “emerging adulthood.” Others say, “21 is the new 16.” However you describe it, these authors and experts can help you figure out the best ways to help your students grow up.
Jul 02, 2012
Digital YouthWorker Journal
You've probably heard the question: Why can’t today’s kids just grow up?
In this digital issue of YouthWorker Journal, we get answers from Chap Clark, Robert Epstein, Amy Jacober, Jeffrey Arnett, Lauren Winner, Kelly Lashly, Jeff Baxter, Rick Dunn and Jana Sundene.
Jun 13, 2012
I promise Mom, I won't forget.
Man, sin sucks.
In mid -January of 2012 my mom was diagnosed with dementia.
Life for my dad and my family has taken some interesting twists.
Jun 11, 2012
Hope for the Youth Ministry Machine?
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What is wrong with the Youth ministry Machine of today? Perhaps we don’t have enough programs for students? Maybe we don’t have enough resources available? Or there is of course the chance that the problem with youth ministry is that the youth fail to see our genius?
Jun 02, 2012
Digital YouthWorker Journal
The May-June edition of YouthWorker Journal is the "Isms" issue, in which you'll find articles such as:
- The Roundtable on Isms
- "Games, Pizza and Isms" by Kelly Soifer
- "Bam!, Pow! Moralistic Therapeutic Deism!" by Paul Asay
- "Me and Mine" by Steve Wilkens and Mark L. Sanford
- "Beyond Points and Proofs" by Tony Myles
As well as content from the regular columnists and more! Check it out here.
May 28, 2012
My Future Moral Failure
I'm convinced that if God doesn't continue to show overwhelming mercy and grace in my life AND if I get sloppy in my interaction with the opposite sex I'm on a collision course with moral failure.
Just to be clear, this blog isn't in response to current relationships and inevitable moral failure for me, but stories I've heard that have gotten my attention.
Over the last 10 days I have had no less than 5 conversations with men who have fallen morally. A dad, a youth pastor, a ministry leader, a pastor, a father were all included in my conversations.
May 30, 2012
Do You Have Garden Friends?
Garden friends...even Jesus had 'em.
Who are your garden friends?
The term garden friends comes from Jesus. Of the 12 disciples, Jesus invited Peter, James, and John into the Garden of Gethsamane as he sweat great drops of blood.
Jun 06, 2012
Hey, Youthworker! DUCK!!
In the winter of 2009, youth leaders from four small Lutheran denominations had the privilege of sitting under the training of Tiger McCluen director Youth Leadership out of Minneapolis. The training was entitled Principles of Effective Youth ministry- The Timothy Project.
May 21, 2012
The Stack
The local youth pastor or local youth worker is constantly faced with the reality of multiplying harvest workers to reach teenagers. In our local ministry we have a monthly In-service meeting that either meets before our High School ministry begins, and after our middle school ministry has concluded. We do it on the first Wednesday night of the month, so our volunteers can get that locked into their minds and hearts.
Of course we offer a meal each month...yup we aren't above bribing!
May 01, 2012
May YouthWorker Journal
This month's edition of YouthWorker Journal is our "Isms" issue, in which you'll find articles such as:
- The Roundtable on Isms
- "Games, Pizza and Isms" by Kelly Soifer
- "Bam!, Pow! Moralistic Therapeutic Deism!" by Paul Asay
- "Me and Mine" by Steve Wilkens and Mark L. Sanford
- "Beyond Points and Proofs" by Tony Myles
as well as content from our regular columnists and more! Check it out here.
Apr 02, 2012
April Digital YouthWorker Journal
This month, YouthWorker Journal includes:
- Youth Culture Update, Culture Watch: "Underaged and Oversexed”
- Campus Ministry: "18 to 25: The Land of In-Between”
- Worldview: "A Pastors Walks into a Bar...Ministry Through Comedy”
- Soul Care: "Warning Signs for the Dying Soul"
Mar 08, 2012
March YouthWorker Journal
We've gone and done it again, given you access to the Digital YouthWorker Journal.
Feb 22, 2012
Walking With Youth Through A Death
Death is never fun to experience but we have to prepare to walk with our students through it in order to serve them well and honor God through it, also.
I don't enjoy it but I've become very good at dealing with death and helping people sort through the pain, anguish and emotional rollercoaster that it can have on a family. I deal with death almost every week, as a part time hospice chaplain. I’m still a one year newbie as a chaplain but I've been in youth ministry for over twenty years. This unique experience mix allows me to share a few things that you can apply and adapt in your ministry.
Feb 02, 2012
YouthWorker Journal
Welcome to February.
It's time for the newest digital edition of the YouthWorker Journal.
This month has articles from:
- Mark Oestreicher
- Marv Penner
- Syler Thomas
- John Huckins
And the Winter 2012 College Spotlight.
Jan 30, 2012
Take Time to Ponder
We are all familiar with the wonderful story of Jesus birth in Luke 2. We are gripped by the trip to Bethlehem and the fact that Jesus is born in a stable. We marvel at the announcement by angels to the lowly shepherds. We appreciate the initiative of the shepherds to come and see the baby and share his arrival with others.
Dec 27, 2011
God is Faithful!
I was down to my last two dollars. It was during my third year on the staff of Student Venture/Campus Crusade for Christ and I was the director of the ministry in Riverside, California. It was the mid-1970s (okay, do the math and guess how old I am), and the economic times were much like today.
Jan 09, 2012
Lean Times
So much is in the news about the economy these days. The daily roller-coaster ride that has characterized the stock market. We're wearied day by day with talking heads debating whether the measures of our economic well-being shows we are in recession, coming out of it, headed back in…are you dizzy yet? The media argues about how the government should handle the crisis, and more. And more.
Dec 21, 2011
Step Into the Pain
I was speechless.
In an airport on a trip recently, I listened to a halting voicemail message from a close friend, telling me of another friend's unexpected death. Scott had died very suddenly while working a second job. He was 44 and seemed in the peak of health. He was an athlete and a radiant believer who lived his faith as a basketball coach (his first job) and deeply loved his wife and family.
Jan 25, 2012
Rooted in God's Love
This summer while visiting my favorite online devotional spot, www.pray-as-you-go.org, I heard a meditation that continues to stir my thinking.
The St. Thomas Music Group was singing a text by John Lane. The words are, “The meaning of life is the mystery of love. Just as the roots of trees hold firm in the soil, so it is the roots of love that hold the ground of our being together.”
Jan 04, 2012
Silence: Creating Space to Pay Attention
God loves having relationship with me! But I miss God’s attempts to capture my attention. My life is so busy and noisy that I hardly notice God’s constant presence.
Henri Nouwen said, “There was a time when silence was normal and a lot of racket disturbed us. But today noise is the normal fare, and silence, strange as it may seem,silence has become the real disturbance.”
Dec 19, 2011
The Adventure of Faith
When was the last time God asked you to do something that seemed totally absurd, even outrageous to you?
Does an example pop into your mind? Then perhaps you will be able to understand how Abram must have felt when God said, “Leave your country, your people, and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.” With no more clarity than that, Abram packed it up and left the familiar behind in response to what he was sure was God’s voice.
Dec 23, 2011
One Step Further...
I love encouraging students in rock climbing. There are many spiritual breakthroughs that people accomplish on the side of the rock. They are stretching their mind and bodies beyond their perceived limitations. I have been privileged to be a teacher's assistant for climbing classes through Biola University for the last five years.
Mar 09, 2012
Healing the Soul of the Youth Worker
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Have you ever felt spritually thirsty, where your soul feels dried like a sun-baked desert? You are not alone. I am a great fan of Henri Nouwen. His depth and simplicity brings me back to what is truly important. I just reordered his book "Out of Solitude" that I loaned to a friend. In this book Nouwen shares the story of Mark 1 where Jesus spends a busy day of ministering, healing and preaching. Then He goes into the wilderness for time with His Father. Even Jesus needed time to reconnect and take care of His Soul.
Dec 05, 2011
Ministering to The Whole Teenager
We are multidimensional beings. Now I am not going to launch into a Star Trek episode to boldly go where no one has gone before. What I mean is we are created with different facets of our being. Even Jesus refers to this when He says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength." In leadership literature the same concept is shared by Stephen Covey in his "7 Habits for Highly Effective People." He speaks of the "4 Dimensions of Renewal" being Physical, Spiritual, Mental and Social.
Dec 02, 2011
December YouthWorker Journal
Where does the time go? 2011 is almost gone! We’re bringing you the final 2011 digital edition of YouthWorker Journal.
This issue includes:
- A look at "The Gospel According to Twilight"
- Matt Redman’s argument that "Passionate Worship Is About Living, Not Merely Singing"
May 20, 2013
Sheep on Main
About a hundred years ago, the area in Idaho to which we are moving was the second-largest sheep producer in the world; over a million of the wooly beasts used to graze the Pioneer Mountain foothills. To celebrate their rich heritage, area residents celebrate the Trailing of the
Oct 31, 2011
November YouthWorker Journal
Youth workers are famous for action, but less so for reflection.
The new digital issue of YouthWorker Journal addresses this deficit. Chap Clark, Scot McKnight, Amy Jacober, Andrew Root, Eugene Peterson, Mark Cannister, Dave Rahn and Gordon MacDonald offer their insights on the biblical and theological foundations of youth ministry.
Don’t miss this issue of YWJ. We hope it helps you answer the WHY questions before you get wrapped up in the pressing HOW questions of youth ministry.
Oct 12, 2011
Simply Youth Ministry Conference: Early Bird Discount is Oct. 31
As a Network member, you can receive a $25 discount on the Simply Youth Ministry Conference in March 2012 by using your discount code: nnymsymc12. Follow the links below, and don't forget to register by October 31 to maximize your savings.
NNYM is excited to partner with Simply Youth Ministry. Our team will be leading a seminar and have a special partner area set up where we can help attendees connect in their communities more effectively. Come join us!
Oct 02, 2011
Digital YouthWorker Journal
Is it October already? It must be, because we’re sending you the October 2011 digital edition of YouthWorker Journal.
We think you and your students will enjoy these articles:
- How youth workers can encourage “Spiritual Creatives” in their groups.
Oct 01, 2011
Cross-fire
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I had an interesting day today.... not really that different than others, but a day that brought to mind the reality of the work I have given my life to. A day that reminded me of the frailty of human life. A day that reminded me of my need for total dependence on my Savior, Jesus Christ! While working out at the gym this morning, I had no idea that this reminder would come. And, while not expecting it, I certainly wasn't thinking that I would be given such a vivid picture of the truths of God's Word.
Sep 28, 2011
Do Elephants Network?
The Elephant Graveyard
I recently watched a documentary about the Elephant Graveyard. Fact or fancy, the tale goes something like this (oversimplified is an understatement). Older Elephants get the sense of their impending demise and travel sometimes thousands of miles to die in the "Elephant Graveyard". The EG is rumored to be littered with thousands of tusks and elephant bones.
Oct 20, 2011
While you are waiting...
Often I am asked, "What do I do to stay current and relevant while I am in-between ministry jobs?" In the current economic environment, that's a question that is being asked more and more and is a worthwhile conversation. Below are a few things that I would encourage if you find yourself in that situation.
Sep 09, 2011
6 Worries of a Youth Worker
Youth workers always seem worried to me. It may be because they are in a stage of life that changes quickly or they feel like they are never settled because being a youth worker feels like you are always on the hot seat. I don’t know all the reasons but I do know that being worried doesn’t help you with confidence. If youth workers could identity and deal with some of these worries I think it would help them be more effective leaders. I have made a list of a few of the worries I see most often but I do believe there are many more. Here is what I got:
Sep 01, 2011
September YouthWorker Journal
Are young people really leaving the church in droves as some studies say? If so, what can we do to develop deeper ties between youth and communities of faith?
In this months digital issue of YouthWorker Journal we sought answers and articles from: Kenda Creasy Dean, Mike King, Heidi Hagstrom, Dick Hardel, Dave Rahn, Kara Powell, Brad Griffin, Drew Dyck, Lars Rood and more!
We pray you and your students find this material helpful!
Aug 30, 2011
My Biggest Sin of the Quarter
I am a work-o-holic. There. I said it. I admit that I love ministry. I love everything about ministry. I have used ministry to explore every interest I have under the sun and give a spiritual context for it. From media to music; academia to pop culture; I have used ministry to satisfy and stimulate my curiosity of a vast array of walks of life. I don’t mind working long days, weekends, nights and early mornings. Many times, it is my work that recharges my battery, especially when I see others stimulated by what I am doing. However, although ministry at times is an idol for me, it’s not my biggest sin.
Aug 05, 2011
Power in Weakness
In our ministry, we love when God uses our strength and/or giftedness because it is easy for us. Life is smooth and there are not very many bumps in the road. But!!! God also uses our weaknesses and the areas that we consider our failures. We beg God to please take this away. There are times when he says “no”, but also says “I will use it”. This is something we do not like. We’d rather have everything in control, and make sure our weaknesses are hidden. When God uses our weakness, it can be frightening to us.
Aug 01, 2011
When You Have To Let One Go
No, I don't have gas. I wish it were that simple.
I recently had to let a volunteer youth leader go. It sucked. Within our youth ministry community, leaders are not just church members – we are like family! And letting a family member know that it's time to step down from youth ministry is hard. Especially when it is not a cut and dried issue such as moral failure. Some poor choices were made that called for a period of time away from youth ministry leadership.
Before the dreaded conversation, much prayer took place. But I also spent some time looking around the internet for some guidance. To no avail. The only information I could find was on “when it's time to let go of a volunteer ministry leader,” but nothing on HOW to let them go. So I found myself in some conversations with God and with other ministry leaders I trust. And before I turned the key in the ignition to meet with the volunteer I was about to have a hard conversation with, I penned a plan.
Jul 25, 2011
Monuments or Mileposts?
Is it strange that one of the banes of my existence is a Coke machine? That's right...a big heavy red nightmare. I walk in the church kitchen...it looks at me with a look that says, "Whatcha gonna do about it?" I answer back, "You're day is coming my friend and when it does I'll be there!"
This Coke machine has never worked right, and hasn't worked at all in years. But there it sits...in all of it's contemptuous glory. Why? That's a good question. It serves no purpose, provides no value, takes up space but gives nothing back. So why is it there? Because it's "always been there". It has become a monument erected to the way things have always been...to comfort...to inertia...to a fear of change. After all, if we move that monument what will we put in it's place? Where will we place the cornucopia of items found lying around the fellowship hall that no one claims? Isn't it just easier to act like it's not there.
Jul 04, 2011
July YouthWorker Journal
Some youth workers struggle with organization while others expertly oversee vast youth ministry departments, programs, staffs and budgets.
No matter where you fall on the ministry management spectrum, we believe you’ll get helpful tips from Nancy Ortberg, Scott Rubin, Kara Powell, Steve Argue, Jim Candy, Syler Thomas, Larry Fowler and Lars Rood in this digital July issue of YouthWorker Journal.
We’re glad to provide this issue free thanks to our partnership with YWJ. May it increase your efficiency and your efficacy!
Jun 14, 2011
When Others Hurt You
People hurt each other. We know that. We even know that “Hurt People Hurt People“. That’s a great book that shares the majority of people who habitually strike out at others, are deeply wounded themselves. Duh! But it’s by a Ph. D and it goes way more in depth, so if you have a chance, read it.
Being hurt by someone is never easy or fun but when we are hurt by people who are so hurt they need bellhops for their emotional baggage, it’s easier.The hardest hurts are by those that we are closest to. The ones that we have shared dreams with, created positive futures and gone to battle with or for. They can be family or people who we consider family from work, church, school, small groups, or anyone we are close to.
Hurting Youth Workers
A couple of years ago, I co-lead a “Help and Hope for Hurting Youth Workers” workshop at the Simply Youth Ministry Conference. Aaron Giesler was the other co-leader and he said something simple yet profound that I have remembered it and used it with others ever since then. He said, “Good people do bad things for good reasons.”
I’m sure he didn’t originate that idea but it has stuck with me, ever since. Think about your own life and experiences, probably it was rare that someone sought to destroy you, crush your heart or betray you.
Jun 13, 2011
Counting Blessings
Have you noticed that some moments are so often recounted that they become the very definition of joy?
On a lovely Spring day, I was driving on a side street, on my way home from work. Up on the left side of the sidewalk, I saw a dark-headed young girl, about 4 years old, peddling her red trike as fast as she could, laughing merrily to herself.
She clutched the string of a blue balloon in her right hand and was dressed in bright yellow, totally enjoying herself. As I she came to the end of the block and I came to the stop sign, our eyes met and we shared a long smile, wave and a “knowing”. It has become a Kodak moment for my soul and I can’t help but smile contentedly as remember that day, that freedom, that …bliss! When a joy is shared, even with a stranger, you’ve shared really something pretty sacred. 
What sacred joy have you experienced?
Jul 28, 2011
Leadership: Experience from the Road
I was thinking about what it was like in my first internship as the only youth pastor of the church back in 1986-87. I knew a little bit from the youth pastors in my life. I knew a little bit from my youth degree, I knew a little bit from the ministry I grew up going to, participating in and there were some great things from my experience that stayed with me. I knew enough about God's Word to believe He gifted me, called me, and made me who I was and so... I just went and did it and to this day continue on with the same little ole steps that keep me moving forward, enjoying leadership, enjoying ministry, enjoying life. Hopefully you will be encouraged a little bit by reading this today and will ultimately look behind you and see a ministry following you!
Jun 08, 2011
Live Free of Disappointment
One of the most terrifying words in the English language is “regret.” It is terrifying because we do not get a reset button, we can’t get back time. It is even more frightening when we realize that we’re not promised much time. James 4 says that our life is a “vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” In light of the fact that time is irreplaceable and limited, how should we live? Should we just coast and wait until it’s all over, or should we make the absolute most of this valuable resource? The former leads to disappointment, the latter leads to satisfaction and peace. To live free of disappointment we must live with excellence, continually improve, have integrity, dream big, and let go of past issues.
Jun 10, 2011
Go Big! Or go...
I have had this problem for a long time now. I think BIG! I dream of a Student Ministry that is BIG. That is huge. That says to every student in every High School that this ministry is for you. That our students, that our leaders, that our team, that our philosophy, that our direction, that our message, is for every Middle Schooler, every High Schooler, every College/Young Adult student in our surrounding area.
I have been at this thing called “youth pastor”, “youth worker” for quite some time now and I can't stop thinking BIG. I can't help it.
Do I care about numbers? Some would say, “Oh yes, this guy cares about numbers.” I say if that is what you think, so be it. Some might say “He only wants to build his own kingdom.” If that is what is said, so be it. Some might feel that I only care about evangelism and reaching students. Alrighty then, and the problem with reaching students is what? I have heard all the stuff for years. Quite frankly, no big deal. I know the truth and as a leader, I must push on with the vision, with the passion, with this big ole heart for students, all students that the Lord has given to me.
Jun 03, 2011
Today's Networking Thot
Courtesy of Mikey's Funnies...
today'sTHOT============================
It's amazing what you can accomplish if you don't care who gets the credit.
May 26, 2011
Ministry is Hard Work. Right?
1 Thessalonians 1.2-3 2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
I am moved at these words of Paul. Sometimes in the long haul of Student Ministry the word "work" can sometimes be misunderstood, written off, even looked down upon. Sometimes the word "work" can be marginalized as if working and ministry shouldn't go together. After all, we (youth ministry people) build relationships. We don't pursue #'s. We don't do things like other churches. We don't work; work is what the corporate world does. We do ministry and that to some these days in not the same as work. At least, if I'm honest... I have even said that. When my ministry was flat. When it seemed my bag of tricks was gone. When it seemed that the Sr. Pastor wanted more from me. When I may have felt that the board was looking at me funny. When I was burnt out. When I had had enough of spinning all the plates...I found myself speaking badly about work/ministry.
Aug 31, 2011
NNYM Discount: YS National Youth Workers Convention
Youth Specialties' National Youth Workers Convention early bird discount is coming up soon
! Below is information that will make it much easier to use the NNYM discount code with your churches and affiliates. This year, like last, our special partner discount code (NNYMNY1) will give you $25 off the current ticket price for 4 ticket types: Individual, Alumni, Spouse & Full-time Student. The Group (4+) rate does not qualify for this discount, but only because it is already LOWER, currently only $198/person!
Below you will see the links for both San Diego and Atlanta. Feel free to pass these on to others in your network. When you click on the link, the prices already reflect your $25 discount.
San Diego http://nywc2011-san-diego.eventbrite.com/?discount=NNYMNY1
Atlanta http://nywc2011-atlanta.eventbrite.com/?discount=NNYMNY1
San Diego NYWCis September 30-October 2, 2011.
Atlanta NYWC is November 18-20, 2011.
May 10, 2011
Momentum and Intimacy
Over the course of 15 years, the tug of war on my heart and mind in student ministry became predictable.
Every year I felt torn between the desire to do more/be more in the lives of students VERSUS the desire to do less/be less, hoping that might translate into being healthier.
For the first five years in student ministry I worked on average 70 hours weekly. It was a season when I had more margin to spend my time that way. Is that an excuse though?
Apr 14, 2011
God Is A Dreamer
Last week I had the chance to chat with Jeff Goins from Adventures in Missions about a new project he is working on. The project is called Kingdom Dreams, which is a new approach to helping people find their ministry calling.
Kingdom Dreams desires to inspire, equip and resource people to pursue one's God-given dreams and passions. It's the catalyst for the next generation of Christians focused on changing the world. It offers people the space, freedom, guidance, and confidence to dream and experiment, through the channel of meaningful personal connections.
Apr 13, 2011
How Do YOU Network?
Recently I had the pleasure of meeting up with a few guys from the Marshfield, Wisconsin youth ministry network. The candor and honesty in the group was refreshing! I could tell after a few minutes into the network meeting that these guys have a healthy network because of the jovial nature, honest sharing and humble leadership that I observed.
Mar 11, 2011
Thoughts After SYMC
I spent this past weekend with a ton of great youth workers at the Simply Youth Ministry Conference. We took some time today in the office to reflect on what we learned. Here is a small sample of our thoughts:
1. Youth workers need community
We witnessed the power of community through connections over and over again. Youth pastors don’t feel connected to their churches or their profession, so gatherings like SYMC feel like being in a spa.
Jul 27, 2011
No more throwing stones
As youth pastors, we can get frustrated with traditional churches, hierarchy, and politics.
We want to see changes happen, but often are not the ones in the position to speak about them...let alone implement them. Sometimes we hold in our clenched fists these "stones"...all of the problems we think need fixing: the worship, the structure, the leadership, the youth budget (or lack thereof), the rules and regulations, the atmosphere, the senior pastor, the parents, the theology, the hymns we have to sing, etc...
Over time, these lists can pile up like a bunch of stones. Before long the only thing we know to do with them is throw them at the root of the problem...the church. And if the church has stained glass windows, you might be in for a real scene!
But rather than standing outside in the parking lot throwing stones the church, we must get inside and try to bring change from within. I credit this phrase and idea to my friend and colleague John a.k.a "Bags" and our conversation at the Zoo Bar in Pittsburgh.
Jan 11, 2011
Immerse Journal
“Each article is meant to help youth workers in whatever context they might find themselves working to help guide students into spiritual formation for the mission of God. Immerse is about providing youth workers with theologically robust, soul-caring and genuinely practiced tools for contextualizing the mission of
Dec 30, 2010
January YouthWorker Journal
We love technology, but we sometimes dislike what it does. How can we strike a balance?
The latest digital issue of YouthWorker Journal gathers experts, including Tim Schmoyer, Shane Hipps, Mark Bauerlein, Peggy Kendall, Adam McLane, Kelly Soifer and Walt Mueller to explore the theme of “Technology and Youth Culture.”
Have you experienced group meetings in which young people were more engaged with their digital devices than with the kids sitting near them?
Have you ever wondered which tech tools and websites could help your ministry and which ones are total wastes of time and energy?
These and other questions are addressed in the new digital YWJ.
We hope the wisdom in these pages helps you get off to a great start in youth ministry in 2011.
Dec 02, 2010
Clarifying Your Calling
I love being with youth workers from the South. Lots of them remember the exact date when they were called into ministry. It’s always amazing when someone tells me, “I was called into ministry at the age of 17.” It’s amazing because they are actually living out their calling.
Calling is special because it’s God telling you he is going to be with you as you do his work. It brings trust, perseverance and confidence. However, for many of us we have not had the “calling experience.” We do youth ministry because we love students and we have a heart for seeing them grow.
Dec 01, 2010
December YouthWorker Journal
Are you more than your job description?
What do you do when the honeymoon is over at work?
Are your best years ahead of you or behind you?
Do you ever talk to God when you're not in front of your students, leading them in prayer?
These are some of the frank questions explored in the latest digital issue of YouthWorker Journal, which we provide to you free thanks to our partnership with YWJ.
To dive into articles by Walt Mueller, Barry Shafer and David Olshine, along with reviews and excerpts from the latest youth ministry books and resources, just open this link.
We hope it helps you in your all-important work with kids!
Nov 19, 2010
The telling and re-telling of stories
A few weekends ago, I drove to Pennsylvania farm country with my wife to celebrate her college homecoming and reunion.
We had a great time and it was thrilling for me to meet so many of her friends that I had heard stories about. I was amazed watching my wife relive her time at college. We all sat around for hours swapping stories. There was a wonderful familiarity, fondness, and closeness that permeated the conversations.
These memories were exhilarating for me to hear, and even more so, for this group of friends to share. There was laughter, reflection, and tears; but all of it brought these friends closer. The re-telling of these shared stories brought these friends back to the beginning after being geographically spread apart. Back in time to a place and space they all shared and loved.
Nov 13, 2010
We Love Our Youth Worker
This year, as I start a new school year of ministry at my current church, I have realized that I am now the longest tenured church youth worker in my town and the third longest in the county that I live. For some, this may seem like an amazing accomplishment but in reality it really is more of a concern. It would be one thing if I could say that I was in my tenth year of ministry at my current church but this year only marks the beginning of my fourth. At four years, I shouldn't be the church Youth Ministry elder in my community.
Nov 03, 2010
Rays of Hope
Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
After a crazy day of preparing for our realtor to host an open house, I was in a flow when the doorbell rang. I walked to the front door and no one was there. I walked back to the office, placed laptop in lap, mind semi-engaged, and the doorbell rang again.
This time I was a little perturbed. I walked quickly to the door to open and still no one. Not wanting to repeat the process, I started looking around outside the front door. Then I realized: I had just been invited to a game of triplet “hide-and-seek.”
Nov 01, 2010
November YouthWorker Journal
Suppose you could assemble a dream team of youth ministry experts and ask them anything on your mind. Chances are your group might include Jim Burns, Terry Carty, Les Christie, Chap Clark, Pamela Erwin, Doug Fields, Mike King, Nick Palermo, Wayne Rice and Duffy Robbins.
Whether you're a youth ministry veteran or a newbie, there's plenty to gain from these leaders, who are offering insights in the latest digital issue of YouthWorker Journal, which we are offering to you thanks to our partnership with YWJ.
Oct 29, 2010
The Greatest Need of a Leader
I believe all leaders need the same two things: wisdom and creativity. Our greatest needs as leaders are contained in these two words. Wisdom allows us to make good decisions in a timely manner. When we make good decisions, people follow us, they think we are experts, and they want to go where we are going. Creativity allows us to see what others can’t.
Oct 25, 2010
NNYM Discount: Group & Doug Fields' 2011 Simply Youth Ministry Conference
We’ve partnered again with our friends at Group to help connect youth workers together during the Simply Youth Ministry Conference! The NNYM leadership team will be serving at this gathering and we’re looking forward to seeing our NNYM members! The Early Bird discount is approaching fast.
SYMC is March 4-7, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, Chicago.
As part of our ongoing partnership with SYMC, all NNYM members and anyone else from your church will get an additional $25 discount for the Simply Youth Ministry Conference! Register with the promo code NNYMSYMC --and if you register before October 31 you’ll save $65 per person—and up to $85 per person for teams of five or more!* (there’s also special pricing for spouses!) You can even lock in your rate and save your seat now with a deposit and pay the rest in January. Hurry! Seats are filling fast and last year sold out early!
Oct 13, 2010
Why Join a Youth Leader Network?
If you've ever enjoyed being in community with other youth workers, you're going to love this video!
The major complaint received on the evaluation forms was that "the retreat wasn't long enough" --- this was music to our ears!
During our time together we asked them the question, "Why would I join a youth leader's network?"
Check out this video to get a feel for the "heart" of some
Sep 17, 2010
Taking Time To Care for Your Soul
Tired? Burned out? Too many problems and too little time? As youth workers we have all experienced all those emotions and have wondered how to stay intimately connected with Jesus in a disconnected world.
Recently, I chose to do something about it for my own soul. I attended a one-day retreat that our Christian Formation Director, Kristi De Vito, put together. It was incredible to take a day away and work through exercises designed to help the youth worker find time with God and overcome burn-out.
Kristi De Vito has served in ministry for over 30 years and is on the leadership team for the National Network of Youth Ministries, where she currently serves in the area of Christian Formation. Her focus is on the soul-care of individuals by providing venues for small groups, one-on-one connection, reflective retreats and other formational opportunities. Kristi's passion is to help youth workers take time to be with God and deepen thier relationship with Him.
Here is a video that shares her heart. On her website www.quietreflection.org, she lists resources to help you (and your students) find ways to be still and know that He is God.
Nov 08, 2010
Why I meet with other local youth pastors
At my local youth pastor meeting I asked two of the guys why it’s important for them to attend our group each week. Check out this video to hear what they said. I shared some of why it’s important for me to get together with other local youth pastors, too.
Jul 30, 2010
Pastoring at the National Youth Workers Convention
Youth ministry is a joyous, but at times, a very hard calling. Regular struggles can occur with parents, students, leadership, finances . . . and the list goes on.
Who pastors the youth leaders through these dangers, toils and snares?
May 04, 2010
I gave up a TV show I love
I made a good decision this weekend, but it took me a bit too long to make it. I decided to stop watching a show I used to love.
Several years ago, I went through a real intense growth period in my Christian life. I was learning a lot from the Lord and learning it fast. One of the decisions I made during that time was that I didn’t want to be entertained by things like sexual jokes, adultery, cursing, vulgarity and cruelty. I knew that God had called me to live with purpose and for Him, and I didn’t want anything coming in my way.
Then my friends started telling me how funny a certain television show was.
Apr 19, 2010
One in Christ, Not in Me
Do you ever feel in constant conflict with other Christians?
This weekend, conflict was the theme for me. First, I needed to confront a Christian couple about a disagreement that had been between us for years. Then, at church I felt really troubled over a general decision at my church with which I didn't agree. In ministry, conflict is pretty much guaranteed to come around sometimes. We're working with people, after all.
In my case, I knew God was trying to teach me something through the conflict.
Apr 01, 2010
That's My King!
If you want to get into the Easter spirit, take a few minutes at this website and worship Jesus as you listen to this short, famous message from Rev. SM Lockridge on "That's My King!" (newly paired with visuals from Passion of the Christ). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6wL1IvMuWo
Apr 01, 2010
Refreshing God's People
Last night, some things happened that I felt were unfair to me.
It involved spending money. Whenever I have to spend money on, or because of, someone else for a reason that I feel is unfair, I get upset. I told myself that I had the right to be upset, because Josh and I don't have a lot of money. Since we don't have a lot, people shouldn't expect anything of us, right? They should be the generous ones, because their paychecks are bigger than ours.
But what God showed me last night was that I have been living with a stingy spirit.
Mar 02, 2010
Keeping Our Youth From Jesus
Our young people are hungry for God but what are we filling them up with? For many of us, our motives are pure and we are considered a success based on our numerical attendance or the enjoyment that the kids get from our programs or events. But what if what we are actually doing is hindering kids from having a deep, personal and profound relationship with Jesus Christ? What are ways that we hinder our youth?
Feb 28, 2010
The Holymess of Marriage & Ministry
When my wife and I look at the journey of our dating years and marriage, we like to refer to the “holymess” of our relationship. Our marriage is a holy, great, awesome thing that has taught us a lot, but that is in part due to the messy times we have faced…and are still facing in some regards. The holy parts of a relationship go hand-in-hand with the messy parts. In fact, to have a truly deep and godly relationship, you can’t have one without the other.
Feb 03, 2010
People or Paper
I remember back in college having to read youth ministry management books that gave us rookies ample advise and tools to organize our youth ministry in order to maximize effectiveness. They all read like operational manuals or business plans and clearly focused on the administrative aspect of our roles.
While these types of books can be helpful, I believe that finding a healthy balance and “managing” your ministry has more to do with priorities than specific organizational methods.
Jan 12, 2010
The Heart of a Prostitute
Do you ever get the feeling that things just aren’t as they should be? That something somewhere has gone wrong, and you can’t exactly place your finger on it?
I have a routine of getting up in the morning, making a pot of coffee, putting some creamer in a cup, and sitting down with my Bible.
The important piece of information is that I’m not always in my right mind when I first wake up. There are times when I can’t remember where the alarm clock is, and I forget where my socks are, and it takes every ounce of energy I have to just find the coffee pot. Let alone prep it for the sweet brown nectar that God must have created on the eighth day upon waking from His seventh day of rest.
Jan 06, 2010
Starting A Network
What can you learn from a youth worker who has started two networks, and been involved in four ot them? Jimmy Higgins has been networking to reach teenagers for years in Southern California. I am encouraged by his joy and heart for reaching teenagers. He just knows that we are better together and lives it out in his ministry. I caught up with him and asked him about starting youth worker networks. This is his story.
Dec 17, 2009
Perfectly Broken
We seem to be driven in our culture today. Every where I look I see people and organizations pushing themselves to meet a standard or to produce a product that the whole world stop and admire with awe. We are all looking for it as if it was fading whisper of something that once was and that we desperately need again.
In short, we are looking for perfection. We advertise that it is out there. There is the perfect cup of coffee, the perfect golf swing, the perfect school, and even the perfect date.
Dec 08, 2009
Youth ministry...In it for the long haul?
Some experts have estimated that the average term a youth pastor stays at a church is 18 months. I'm not very good with math, but that appears to be more than one year and less than two.
Are you in youth ministry for a paycheck, for some good ministry experience, or as a "stepping stone" ministry? Are you trying to gain experience for another job as a "real pastor?"
I've had to ask myself these questions during my time as a youth pastor:
- Did I really go into youth ministry for the right reasons?
- Am I still in youth ministry for the right reasons?
- What are the "right" reasons?
Oct 22, 2009
7 Reasons I Love Youth Ministry
Austin Duncan, the high school pastor of Grace Church in Sun Valley, California, offers his personal apology for being in ministry to teenagers:
I love student ministry because:
1. I love evangelism (Matt 28:19). The wise youth minister is an evangelist at heart and desires to see young men and women give their lives to Christ. The students in our churches pose a tremendous opportunity as a mission, an unreached people group of sorts, in our own church.
Oct 15, 2009
3 Stages of a Youth Worker's Development
Editor's Note: Doug Franklin is the president of LeaderTreks, a ministry dedicated to creating tools and resources to enable youth workers to develop students into leaders. Doug's blog, www.dougfranklinonline.com, has a wealth of insights.
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I find that youth workers go through three phases of development. These phases are described below. Try and determine which phase you’re in.
Self Focused
In the first phase of youth ministry many youth workers are concerned with being liked. We want the students to see us as cool and someone who can relate to them.
Sep 10, 2009
“Arise! Cry Out!”
You might consider sending this information on to any mothers that you know...praying moms might be one of your best allies to reach the schools in your community.
Moms In Touch International is hosting a historic prayer event, “Arise! Cry Out!” on November 14, 2009, inviting Christian mothers from around the world to “Arise! Cry Out!” for the generations. Click here to watch a 90 second video about Arising and Crying Out!
Sep 07, 2009
Ode to Crabgrass
crab·grass or crab grass (krab'gras´) n. Any of certain grasses of the genus Digitaria, especially D. sanguinalis or D. ischaemum, widely naturalized in North America.
It’s insidious. Malignant. Deceptive. And downright annoying.
Each summer, I have more than enough opportunities to consider the Nature and Ways of Crabgrass. Maybe you have too – or maybe you’re wondering if I’ve been sniffing too much Weed-B-Gon. But I’ve decided that God created crabgrass just to teach me about sin.
Sep 10, 2009
Being Professional
Editor's Note: Doug Franklin is the president of LeaderTreks, a ministry dedicated to creating tools and resources to enable youth workers to develop students into leaders. Doug's blog, www.dougfranklinonline.com, has a wealth of insights.
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When I graduated from college I got a job with a real estate development company selling office and industrial space. I would rise early in the morning, wear a suit and tie, speak in low hushed tones, shake hands a lot; I was evaluated on performance and returned home late in the evening. People called me a professional.
When I switched professions to youth ministry...
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