Uncategorized

Part 1: Admitting the Disconnect — How Churches Lost Touch with Parents For decades, churches have worked tirelessly to reach and disciple the next generation. We’ve launched youth programs, hired passionate leaders, and hosted countless events designed to engage teens. And yet, despite our best intentions, the reality is sobering: we are losing ground. Teens […]

Big change doesn’t start with big programs—it starts with small, faithful steps. If outsourcing youth ministry to one professional isn’t the answer, and if a shared vision is the goal, the question becomes: how do we begin? The truth is, shifting church culture takes time and persistence. But it’s not as complicated as it may

Part 2: A Shared Vision for Youth Ministry If outsourcing youth ministry isn’t the answer, what is? The good news is that the Bible has already given us the blueprint. From Deuteronomy’s call for parents and communities to teach God’s commands, to Paul’s vision of the church as a body with many members, Scripture makes

By Duane Smith For decades, many churches have leaned on a familiar model: hire a young, energetic youth pastor and trust them to carry the weight of discipling teens. It feels efficient, even comforting—after all, that’s what the professional is paid for, right? But if we’re honest, this “outsourcing” approach has not produced the flourishing

As transition continues within the political landscape of America, most would agree that we live in a day of uncertainty, with many shifts occurring in how we see and understand the world.  This is true particularly of youth and young adults as they navigate their current reality and future.  On one hand, researchers point to