Youth Ministry Team Podcast

Every youth ministry dreams of being a welcoming place where students bring their friends — but what happens when the openness of your group makes it harder for your students to go deep? In this week's conversation, Deniel Sewell from Connexus Church joins us to talk about how to navigate the tension between open groups and deep relationships. He shares practical ways volunteers can stay relationally connected to students, even when new people show up every week — and how small group leaders can step into bold, meaningful conversations that shape students' faith for the long haul.Learn more about where Deniel serves by heading to ConnexusChurch.com or instagram.com/connexusinsideout

The impact of community and friendship makes much more of a difference then we sometimes understand. In this episode, Roger highlights the significance of the Sunday morning service and in particular the opportunity to connect students with each other. Fortunately, the principles he shares will work great anytime you gather students, no matter the time of week. He'll also give you practical ideas to inspire your student leaders to be part of the solution."I think it's community. I think community is really important. We have to raise the culture of friendship because the reality is if a teenager doesn't have their friends and they don't feel welcome or don't feel seen, they're not coming back no matter how good your program is."Find out more about where Roger serves by heading to hillsidemoncton.org/students/ Roger mentioned this video curriculum: darkroomfaith.comWant to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Every ministry team has a point person (or two… or three!) that carries a little extra responsibility. Sometimes that person is paid for their time, but sometimes that person is another volunteer. Either way, the weight of leadership can be challenging and sometimes it can be hard to know how to be helpful for them. In this week's conversation, Jordan from The Pastorate shares some ideas on how to support your point leader – both for their sake and for the students that you minister to.You can follow along with Jordan and The Pastorate on Instagram or through their website.Mentioned in this episode:Emerging Leaders LabThe application deadline for the next Emerging Leaders Lab is April 1! Head to https://www.thepastorate.ca/lab to find out more. The Emerging Leaders Lab is a 12 month pastoral formation community that is designed to help participants grow in 8 essential pastoral competencies, helping participants have a faithful and fruitful ministry.

Whether your team is small or large, it's always helpful to have more people investing into the faith of the next generation. But how do you actually go about doing that? Kara has seen her team grow immensely over the past few years and she'll offer some ideas that you can use whether you are a point leader or a volunteer in your ministry.You can follow along with Kara at thisisvillagechurch.com

In this conversation, Sid interviews Tim Barnett on the topic of the deconstruction of faith. Tim will explore the reasons behind deconstruction, the role of social media in organizing the deconstruction movement, and the difference between doubt and deconstruction. He'll share his personal journey of discovering apologetics and his work in helping young people navigate their faith. They also discuss the importance of Scripture in youth ministry and how the shift away from the authority of Scripture has radical implications. Tim will also explain how Scripture is not only right but also good, and how it is relevant to our lives. You'll discover practical steps for walking with someone going through deconstruction in your ministry.Learn more about Tim by following him on Youtube, Instagram, or through his website. And check out Tim's book, The Deconstruction of Christianity.Mentioned in this episode:You are invited to a YWC Conference near you!Check out youthworker.community/conferences2024-2025 Conference

Lydia Kidd shares her insights on student leaders and how her church has prioritized their development by involving them in ministry and providing them with mentors. Whether you are running a dedicated program for student leaders or just looking for ways to support some of your more committed students, Lydia will give you some great ideas. Not only that, but she's making some of her documentation available to help you as you develop more leaders. You can find those resources at this link: https://bit.ly/3XiRxdZYou can access the Renegotiating Faith research project at renegotiatingfaith.ca.Learn more about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership at youthworker.community/coalitionFind out more about where Lydia serves by heading to cschurch.ca. You can also access some of her student leadership resources at this link: https://bit.ly/3XiRxdZWant to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Listen in to this week's conversation as Jeremy and William discuss how small group leaders can see more progress with their students. Will talks through the discipleship quadrant he uses with his team, which consists of four different quadrants: permissive, authoritarian, cozy, and Jesus-centered. He'll emphasize the importance of balancing challenge and support in order to create a culture of growth and transformation. Will also provides practical ideas for small group leaders, such as praying for students, playing with them, posturing as shepherds rather than chaperones, and connecting with them outside of program moments.Find out more about where Will serves by heading to ebenezerbaptist.ca/youth or follow him on Instagram.Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Jeremy and Josh discuss the importance of creating a high feedback culture in your youth ministry. When the whole team knows the purpose of the ministry it allows you to consistantly seek feedback from students and other leaders. That value of listening to students' ideas and dreams helps generate more buy-in as they get to have influence in shaping the ministry. Lastly, Josh will encourage you to be more than just a pamphlet of information, but to be a person who practices your faith and shares your lives with the students you lead.Find out more about where Josh serves by heading to https://www.lewisville.church/ or https://www.cbmin.org/Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

In this conversation, Jeremy and Steve discuss how to handle a situation where your point leader is disorganized. Steve provides a framework for having hard conversations, which includes three phases: curiosity, clarity, and collaboration. In the midst of any difficult conversation, make sure you approach the conversation with curiosity and compassion, seeking to understand the other person's perspective. Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

REPLAY // This episode originally aired on May 24, 2021Summer camp has historically been a pivotal place for the spiritual development of the next generations. If you have students connected to a summer ministry right now, you can help make that experience even better! Listen in as we chat with Deniel Sewell about the connections that should happen between school year ministries and summer ministries.We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question to jeremy@youthworker.community

If your ministry has small group leaders, then your ministry should have some way for those leaders to be coached. Oftentimes the coaching is left to the point leader, but as your ministry grows you should also find ways to empower volunteers to step into the small group leader coach role. In this conversation, Jeremy and Chandra discuss the importance of coaching and Chandra shares her experience implementing a coaching culture in her ministry and provides practical tips around supporting and guiding leaders, setting goals, and providing resources. Listen in for ideas that you can implement in your ministry this week!Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Andrew Goodman, a missionary in southeast Asia, shares about the civil war and hardships faced by the people of Myanmar. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the power of the gospel to bring hope and transformation. He encourages youth workers to have a bold and humble faith, to be part of God's movement, and to be open to God's calling in their lives. Andrew also highlights the work of OMF in ministering to the people of Myanmar and invites others to join in the mission.Take a look at OMF by heading to their website here: https://omf.org/ca/Or Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/omf_ca/Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

REPLAY // This episode originally aired on July 30, 2019Summer brings a great opportunity to build relationships with your students outside of the typical routine, but what are the best ways to make that connection? What if your students are away at summer camp or working a job? Thinking creatively about leveraging the summer can lead to important spiritual conversations, can launch you well into the fall, and can give you a chance to connect with students you may not be able to otherwise.We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question to jeremy@youthworker.community

In this week's conversation, Jeremy and Steve explore the tension between ministry commitments and family time. If you've ever wondered how to find a better balance, you'll be encouraged by the idea of learning the sacred times of your family's day. You should also take Steve's idea of reframing the language around absence and use it to help your whole family understand the ministry you are leading.Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalitionWant to chat more with Steve? You can reach out to him at steve@youthworker.community.Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

“I think first of all, as leaders, we have to understand what the gospel is first and foremost so that we can lead, encourage, coach, challenge, and even call [our students] to a decision.”Mark Miller, from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, joins Jeremy on the podcast to discuss leading teenagers to Jesus. Mark emphasizes the importance of a moment of decision in accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior and the need for youth leaders to understand and articulate the gospel. Listen in for a clear way that you can lead your students to faith in Jesus. You can join the work of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association in spreading the gospel online by heading to SearchforJesus.net or check out www.billygraham.ca Billy Graham would often pray: “Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite you to come into my heart and life. I want to trust you and follow you as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus Name, amen.”1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.Romans 10:9: If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

“I think it's always the goal is always to get to somebody's heart. Like what do you believe about yourself and God?”This is the question that Kyla is helping youth workers focus on as we connect with all of our students, including those that identify in the LGBTQ+ community. In light of that, Kyla recommends these three lead in questions that help us understand our students better:Would you share your story with me?Tell me more about your identity… What does that mean for you?We want you here – what could we do to help make you feel that truth?If you haven't met Kyla yet, she introduces herself on her website by saying, “Hi, I'm Kyla. I am a biological female who transitioned and lived as male for 6 years, then detransitioned. I'd love to share my story with you.” In this conversation we get to hear a bit of that story, but you can hear more back on episode 200.You definitely want to learn more about Kyla and her ministry. You can track with her on Instagram or through her website: kylagillespie.com and you should definitely reach out to find ways to connect her with the work you are doing.Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

In this episode, Jeremy and Sid discuss the crucial role of prayer in youth ministries. You'll hear their personal insights on making prayer a core part of ministry culture, emphasizing its impact on both your other volunteers and youth. Listen in for practical tips on integrating prayer as a personal practice heading into ministry situations as well as how to pray for your students and pray with your students.Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalitionWant to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.communityMentioned in this episode:Next Steps AwardsCheck out the Next Steps Awards from Power to Change - Students. There's $50,000 available this year! https://p2c.com/students/awards/ If you'd like to find a university campus group, check out this link: https://p2c.com/students/campuses/

In this episode, Jeremy and Sid discuss how to coach other small group leaders in both informal and formal settings. They emphasize the importance of fostering a culture of teachability and asking questions to spark curiosity and learning. They also suggest defining a fixed time for coaching sessions and setting clear expectations for the coaching relationship. The hosts encourage veteran small group leaders to take on the role of coaching and supporting younger leaders, recognizing the impact they can have on the next generation.   Check out the Next Steps Awards from Power to Change - Students. There's $50,000 available this year!   If you'd like to find a university campus group, check out this link: https://p2c.com/students/campuses/   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community   Takeaways Youth workers have the power to shape the future of their students by speaking truth and providing a vision for their lives. Youth workers should see themselves as conduits of truth, communicating the messages of Jesus and helping students discover their unique gifts and potential. There is a hesitation among youth workers to exercise their influence due to fear of getting it wrong or pushing students away, but the void is then filled by other voices. Prayer and seeking God's vision are essential for youth workers to effectively guide and mentor their students. Asking the right questions can help youth workers uncover the potential and purpose in their students' lives. Youth workers have the opportunity to make an eternal difference in the lives of young people and should embrace their role as shepherds and guides.   Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Framing the Question 00:57 The Role of Youth Workers in Shaping the Future 04:04 Being Conduits of Truth 08:38 Speaking Truth and Calling Out Students 11:08 Asking the Right Questions 13:49 Prayer for Volunteer Youth Workers

Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   We're coming to Ontario! Join us February 24, 2024 at Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East     Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   We're coming to Ontario! Join us February 24, 2024 at Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Learn more about Meisha at the following links:   Hey Meisha! Her Instagram My Single Story A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible…   Christar is a global missions organization that cares deeply about your ministry to the next generation here in our country. So whether it's leveraging their wisdom to craft ethical mission trips or connecting with them to catch a vision for what God is doing in hard to reach places, your ministry should connect with our friends at Christar.   Trinity Western University has been a long time supporter of the Youth Worker Community and we love how they merge a commitment to the discipleship of their students with strong leadership development AND world class academics. Take a look at all the program offerings so you know when to recommend TWU to your students!   The Chosen is is the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. The series allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew Him. Check out the season 4 trailer here and then see if it's showing in a theatre nearby.   You are invited to the YWC Conference! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible…   The Chosen is is the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. The series allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew Him. Check out the season 4 trailer here and then see if it's showing in a theatre nearby.   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Sid and Jeremy mentioned a few platforms such as… https://groupme.com/ https://www.whatsapp.com/download https://discord.com/ https://www.messenger.com/   A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible…   Rocky Mountain College is one of partners for the Coalition and we've loved helping dozens of youth workers get their Bachelor's degree through this partnership. Not only that, but Rocky actually offers a free Intro To The Bible course that you can sign up for at this link. Check it out with your other team members or even your students!   The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has been faithfully reaching people for Jesus for years and they are using their platform on Search For Jesus to help connect with folks around the world. Check it out and see if you or even your students might be interested in volunteering to help spread the gospel in these unique ways!   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible…   Millar College of the Bible are developing passionate, relevant servants of Jesus Christ who are shaped by the entire Scriptures. Whether it's a gap year or a full degree, you should familiarize yourself with Millar. They'll root your students deeply into the Scriptures with a love for Christ.   Teen Street are such helpful partners in this season and you should check out their Out of the Box discipleship event – it's a toolkit designed to help you run a great retreat for your students.   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… Do you know someone who is thinking about ministry?   The Way College is a 4-year accredited program for people who want to pursue a future in ministry. The program is designed to go deep theologically and also equip you practically for on-the-ground local church ministry.   Launched by Jason Ballard from the Alpha Youth Series and the team at The Way Church in Vancouver, this is a wonderful option for you or your students. If you want to know more, visit thewaycollege.ca Change Conference (from Youth For Christ Canada) exists to see every youth in Canada hear, respond to, and live out the message of Jesus in their lives. Whether you join in Alberta, Ontario, or Online, make sure to check out ChangeConference.com to learn more about how your group can be part of this exceptional event.   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

No matter where you fall on your church's organizational chart, we believe that this conversation with Ebonie around thoughtful discipleship in the youth space will serve you. In their time together, Ebonie and Jason explore how the church can play a vital role in nurturing a Jesus-centered joy among young people. They also touch on topics like contextual spiritual formation for the next-generation and adopting a “whole church” vision for youth discipleship within a community. Ebonie also courageously shares her deeply moving and inspirational journey of discovering Jesus. We hope you enjoy the conversation with the joy-exuding Ebonie Davis.   Find out more about Ebonie at…   Arbor Research Group LinkedIn Amazon   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

No matter when and where your youth ministry meets, a core element to what happens is the opening of the Scriptures together. Sometimes a live person leads that experience – usually in the format of preaching or Bible study. Sometimes that experience is led by a resource like video curriculum.   The point isn't as much the method as it is what you do with it. In this conversation, Sid and Jeremy will walk you through the following important next steps for after the teaching, whether it's live or recorded…   You need to guide You need to re-engage the passage You need to ask great questions You need to apply (and invite them to apply too)   Would you like to have affordable and accessible video curriculum for your ministry? Check out our growing library of content at YouthGroupTalks.com   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   And we're coming to Ontario!   February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Andy Steiger is the founder and president of Apologetics Canada Ministries. He passionately engages pressing issues related to our humanity from a Christian perspective. He has presented at various venues such as Cambridge University on philosophical issues related to Artificial Intelligence, provided ethical guidelines on robotics for the United Nations, and addressed legal concerns over rights of conscience at the World Congress in Philosophy of Law.   So he seems like a pretty good person to ask our questions about ChatGPT and AI

Whether it's a large scale event like Change Conference or your ministry's own event with just your students – we really believe that the work you do after the fact is critically important. The decisions or spiritual experiences that students have are further solidified when we thoughtfully help them process all that they are going through.   That's what Sid and Jeremy talk through in this week's conversation. If you are a volunteer we hope that you'll get some really practical ideas on what you should do in the week following an event or retreat.   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   And we're coming to Ontario! These two events are perfect for you, your youth ministry team, AND your students…   October 27-28, 2023 - Change Conference Ottawa February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Church tradition or liturgies can be challenging to pass on to students who swim in an ever-evolving culture. After all, aren't teenagers looking for dynamic experiences that are relevant to their daily lives? Aren't sacred rituals dull to a younger generation?   Or maybe that's not the whole story.   Listen in on this interview with Jason Smith, who is a veteran youth worker serving in an Anglican context, as he unpacks the ways that he's seen not just unchurched students engage in ancient faith practices, but their entire families.   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   And we're coming to Ontario! These three events are perfect for you, your youth ministry team, AND your students…   October 13-14, 2023 - Change Conference Toronto October 27-28, 2023 - Change Conference Ottawa February 24, 2024 - Today's Teens Conference   Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Jeremy: Hey ChatGPT, why should youth workers listen to this conversation?   ChatGPT: Hey there! Youth workers should tune into this conversation because it delves deep into the challenges and realities teens face in our modern, tech-saturated world. It provides insights into the complexities of identity, the double-edged sword of digital exposure, and the importance of striking a balance with technology. By understanding these nuances, youth workers can be better equipped to guide, mentor, and connect with today's teens, helping them navigate their faith journey in an increasingly connected yet sometimes disjointed digital landscape.   Plus, it's about adapting and staying relevant in a world that's constantly evolving. It's essential knowledge for anyone genuinely invested in the wellbeing and spiritual growth of the younger generation.   Jeremy:

Kyla introduces herself on her website by saying, “Hi, I'm Kyla. I am a biological female who transitioned and lived as male for 6 years, then detransitioned. I'd love to share my story with you.” In this conversation we get to hear a bit of that story, what sparked Kyla's desire to reignite her faith, and how you and I might consider helping our students experience our own faith communities in a similar way to how Kyla experienced hers.   You definitely want to learn more about Kyla and her ministry. You can track with her on Instagram or through her website: kylagillespie.com   You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at YouthWorker.Community. Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry.   November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary   Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We'll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at youthpastorsummit.ca   October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

In today's episode Sid will dive deeper into the final four of the seven faith shaping tasks that are necessary for rooting long term faith in adolescents. Deep discipleship is something that we often are chasing as youth workers but it can be difficult to know what that actually looks like in the lives of our students. Join Sid and Jeremy as they talk through these specific tasks that can spark ideas for your own group.   Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You'll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor's or completing an entire Master's program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition!   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

In today's episode Sid will dive deeper into three of the seven faith shaping tasks that are necessary for rooting long term faith in adolescents. Experiencing God is critical for your students, so helping them understand what that actually looks like and helping them to categorize their emotions and experiences is good work. Join Jeremy and Sid as they walk through ideas that you can take action on in your ministry to your students.   Sid mentioned the research project Hemorrhaging Faith, which you can access at this link.   Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You'll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor's or completing an entire Master's program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition!   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Today's episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership's classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into seven faith shaping tasks based on the work of Stephen Jones. Whatever your context looks like you'll be able to see how each of these can spark ideas for sharpening your ministry to your students...   Experiencing Categorizing Choosing Claiming Deepening Separating Responding   Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You'll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor's or completing an entire Master's program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition!   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Today's episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership's classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into a deep conversation about self-esteem and self-denial and how our understanding of these things shape our ministry to students.    Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You'll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor's or completing an entire Master's program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition!   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Today's episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership's classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into why caring for the next generation matters deeply to God directly from Scripture!    Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You'll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor's or completing an entire Master's program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition!   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

As a volunteer youth leader, you may not necessarily know the people that have and continue to shape youth ministry through their books, teachings, and experience but today's episode is an interview with one of the very best! Join Jeanne Mayo as she shares about how you can know if you're really making an impact based on her 50+ years (and counting!) of ministry experience.   One of the ways to know if you're really making an impact is to personally break the cycle of apathy and rejection (ie. students ghosting you, being generally uninterested, etc), by giving the opposite: acceptance and enthusiasm. Once you're into the journey a bit, ask students one thing that really matters to them that you could pray about and follow up. Showing up intentionally has an eternal impact!    You should totally get to know Jeanne more. Head to jeannemayo.com to access the Cadre, Coaching, and so many fantastic resources.   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Your students are more tuned in to issues of justice than most generations before them. Oppression, exploitation, equality, and equity are part of many students' vocabularies. But students can find it difficult to move from the talk to the walk. So while the TikTok videos they've seen might have sparked their interest, the truth is that you can help them take a step. And that step will be part of authentic discipleship, helping students understand and respond to the call of God.   But knowing what that step looks like can be overwhelming. That's why today's conversation will be so helpful for you. Listen in as Ty Hanlon, a local youth pastor, describes the journey he's been on with his youth group in taking simple and clear steps towards justice. And then hear from Alicia Chinchilla, from Ally Global Foundation, as she helps us all understand more of the issues that are prevalent in our communities and world today.   Check out the following links mentioned in the episode for more information… - Twelve Thousand Film & Discussion Guide  - Lesson Plan for Human Trafficking in Canada - Move For Freedom Information (happening July 8, 2023, there's still time for you to join!) - Move For Freedom Promo Video  - Tim Keller's Article on Biblical Justice  - Alpha Life on Purpose Series  - Ally information   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Whenever new research comes out, we try to make it meaningful and accessible for you to know if and how it affects your ministry. Join today's conversation with Rick and Lindsay from the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada's Center of Research on Church and Faith as they dive into one aspect of the brand new Parenting Faith Research Study.    When asked how much Christian parents agreed with the following statement: “I want my children to make their own religious choices, without pressure from me,” 73% moderately or strongly agreed. What does that mean for the way parents are thinking about passing on faith to their kids? And what does it look like to partner with parents in the ways they'd like faith passed on? Modeling AND teaching faith is the way!   Check out ParentingFaith.ca for the research project (and other resources)   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Teen culture can become more and more mysterious as you grow older. But no matter what stage of life you are in, there are some things you can do in order to understand more about the students in your group. Today's conversation with Chandra Styles will give you some tips both on how to relate to teenagers and why it matters. She'll also cover these two great questions you can use this week in your ministry…   What are you listening to these days? (Or what's the vibe of your playlist?) Is there anything on your social feed that makes you mad?    Both questions will help you understand some of your students' values and the ways they are engaging with the world, God, themselves, and others.    Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

As much as we believe that every follower of Christ should be serving their community in some capacity there are times a volunteer leader needs to step down. If you've ever wondered how to tell if someone should step down or what your role could be if someone is in the process of doing so, this episode is for you! Join Rob from Briercrest and Jeremy as they share frameworks from decades of experience, both as volunteer leaders and point leaders.    There are generally four main categories of why a volunteer leader needs to step down, and defining it will allow you to engage better. Is it an issue of: Conflict, Chemistry, Competency, and/or Character?   From there, start with a conversation leading with curiosity! “Help me understand” is a powerful statement, especially when addressing observable behaviors. And remember - your goal is always to move towards restoration.    Looking for a youth leader job description? Access that HERE.   Looking to be equipped for ministry? Briercrest has so many opportunities that you could access – no matter where you are at in your ministry journey. Check them out at Briercrest.ca   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Your students won't always be in your youth ministry. They'll move on at some point. At the very least, they'll all move on after graduating high school.   And the research is clear that any time a student experiences a transition in their life there's a significant chance that faith might not make it through the transition. But that's where you come in – you can help make sure that a student's faith remains strong.   Join today's conversation as Jeremy interviews Rolf Nanninga from Power to Change - Students and Theresa Catania from Rexdale Alliance and they share a number of ways that you can get in the corner of students and families during the transition seasons (even those not yet part of your ministry).   One great way to support your students that are graduating high school is by offering them access to more financial resources. In light of that, you should get them to check out the NEXT Steps awards, which are designed to encourage a healthy transition to post-secondary by offering funds and by facilitating connections to faith communities on campus.   You can also reach out to Rolf Nanninga anytime as he'd love to support you as you send your students to post-secondary. You can also subscribe to his P2C youth leaders' monthly actionable email stream.    Here is the event Theresa mentioned: Faith in Transition to Post Secondary event from 2022.  Feel free to have your students and parents attend the event in 2023 either in person or virtually on May 12th 2023. Details and registration here.    Youth Worker Community also has topical resources on helping your graduating students -- access those HERE.   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Revelation is hard to understand at the best of times. It frustrates and fascinates many people with its imagery and apocalyptic tone. And unless you are a Bible scholar, it's likely you feel intimidated when students ask questions about it. Join today's conversation with Cody Machett, co-author of Revelation for the Rest of Us with Scot McKnight, as he talks about how to engage students with the book of Revelation.   Cody has so many good things to say, but you might discover in this conversation that the best thing you can do to teach your students about Revelation (or really any book of the Bible) is to model what it looks like to journey into Scripture in community. You don't need all the answers. Just curiosity, a willingness to say “I don't know,” and the ability to engage scripture as fully as possible, including asking the surprising question, “How does [this piece of Scripture] make you feel?”   Want to read more? Go check out Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple by Scot McKnight and Cody Matchett   Want to chat more about revelation and/or youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

The weekly rhythms of your relational ministry certainly helps disciple students. You don't want to give up on that. Yet, there's something special about the experiences that happen outside of the normal rhythms. It's those special events, retreats, camps, or unique gatherings that so many students point back to as integral for their faith journey. Why is that? And how do you plan those kinds of experiences or events, the kind that transforms your students' faith? Join today's conversation with AJ and Kaitlin from Briercrest as they offer the frameworks they use when planning and running large events for teenagers!   The first step to any great event is knowing yourself, your team, and your audience. Then, get brainstorming!    The best brainstorming: Allows time for preparation Has a key prompt Has set expectations beforehand  Invites new voices to the table Isn't limited by your list   And finally some general tips and tricks: Over communicate Know your calendar Give clear details Clarify expectations Start earlier than you think you need to   Want to read more from AJ's blog on mountain top experiences? https://www.briercrest.ca/blog/whyretreat   Want to check out more of what Briercrest and Youth Quake are up to?  www.briercrest.ca youthquake.ca    Looking for a great series that you can use this week in your ministry? Check out YQ at Home 2023: youthquake.ca/athome   And lastly, you should take your students to this year's Youth Quake! www.youthquake.ca/registration   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community   

The last three years have left many of our students feeling like they don't have roots  or a solid foundation to stand on. On top of that, as followers of Jesus our students  can feel like much of the world is against them. But the truth is that the one who is for  them is intimately greater than what is against them. Through her extensive research  on developing gritty faith in teens, Ebonie Davis shows us the practices we need to  help our students embrace in order for them to move from fragile to resilient.   Here's some questions you can wrestle with as you listen to this conversation: How would you define resilient faith or “durable joy”? How would you describe the state of resilient faith, or “durable joy” in your teens? Talk about the factors that adjust the state of resilient faith or durable joy in your teens. These could be positive or negative factors. What are one or two barriers you will need to overcome to build durable joy in our teens?  Is there a rhythm, habit, or practice that you would like to “disrupt” in your kids? What is it? What is one way you could disrupt that rhythm, habit, or practice? Ebonie talked about four habits to help build Jesus focused durable joy in teenagers. Which of those habits would you like to lean into first with your teens? What is one way you could do that? You should pick up Ebonie's book here: https://www.amazon.ca/Disrupting-Teens-Joy-Discover-Jesus-Focused/dp/1942145543   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

Disagreement is part of being human, so it shouldn't be any surprise that you have times when you disagree with leadership. Join today's conversation where Jeremy interviews Kevin Janzen to discover practical steps you can take whenever you find yourself at odds with someone in leadership. Whether it's someone's behavior, or a small disagreement about a program element, or even significant theological questions, here's a few tips on what to do: Lead with humility  Pray for your leader Test things out Meet with your leader  Figure out what's next Honour leadership and steward your position well   There are so many ways for you to connect both in person and virtually this season! Check out these awesome conferences:  Canadian Youth Pastor Summit (East) on March 21-23, 2023 Youth Quake by Briercrest in May, 2023   Kevin Janzen is the Next Gen Coach with the Alberta and Northwest Territories of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Whether you were just at a youth worker training event or you brought students to a retreat – these types of gatherings can be a big game changer for your ministry. But the impact of the event can be measured by not only what happens during it, but what happens afterwards. Join today's conversation as Matt Wilkinson from Today's Teens Conference walks you through a simple takeaway step that will help you make the most of the events that you and your students take part in.   There are so many ways for you to connect both in person and virtually this season! Check out these awesome conferences:  YWC Winter Conferences Canadian Youth Pastor Summit (East) on March 21-23, 2023 Youth Quake by Briercrest in May.   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community  

Even if your ministry doesn't include a class type environment, chances are you've struggled to know what to do with students who don't engage in the way you hope they would. If so, this conversation is still for you!    Join Kara, a fellow Canadian youth worker, and Jeremy as they tackle what you can do with hyperactive teens that don't do well in a class type environment. Kara will offer a few ideas that you can take action on this week:   Set clear expectations Collaborate and talk with parents and families Involve and embrace them   If you have a struggle that you wrestle with, would you drop it into this form? We've got some great questions so far – keep them coming!    And if you would like to offer your own wisdom to someone else's question, you can head to the same form (click through to page two).   There are so many ways for you to connect both in person and virtually this season! Check out these awesome conferences:  YWC Winter Conferences Canadian Youth Pastor Summit (East) on March 21-23, 2023 Change Conference on February 24, 2023 Today's Teens Conference on February 25, 2023 Youth Quake by Briercrest in May.   Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community