"We must find sources of strength and renewal for our own spirits, lest we perish. We must learn to be quiet, to settle in one …
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“The Gifts They Bring”: A Resource for Empowering and Including Children and Youth in Churches
Have you ever envisioned James and John of the infamous Peter, James, and John trio as teenage youth? Is that thought blowing your …
Best Practices for Talking about Death in Ministry Settings
In our work as formation leaders, we will encounter opportunities to talk about death and minister to people who are grieving. It …
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Cultivating Adventurous, Missional Leaders
Few will remember it—and fewer still will believe it—but when I was a seminarian at Virginia Theological Seminary, I was president …
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Intergenerational Insights: A Vision Rooted in Scripture, Theology, and Sacraments
This article is part of a series on Intergenerational Formation Insights written after a literature review by the Roots & …
Intergenerational Insights: The Age-and-Stage Ministry Model
This article is part of a series on Intergenerational Formation Insights written after a literature review by the Roots & …
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Keeping Watch: Suicide Prevention and Youth Ministry
Content warning: This article discusses the topic of suicide. It’s been 21 years since my first youth ministry job and three …
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When an Image of God Is Not Safe: The Impact of Trauma on Spirituality
Content warning: The following article mentions abuse as well as specifically sexual abuse. “I’m evil. My mom said I shouldn’t …
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A Free Tool for Formation Planning: The Ministry Planning Calendar
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" (Eccl 3:1, NIV). A time for worship, study, …
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Courageous Companions: Reimagining Discernment about Mentors for Youth
I have been privileged to lead training events about the best practices in youth ministry for years. A topic always addressed is …
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