Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast

264: What is persecution and what can your students learn from the persecuted church?

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 19:57:00 -0500

Jeremy sits down (in person!!) with Andrew and Chris from Open Doors Canada to explore what persecution really means and why understanding it matters for all of us youth workers as we pass faith onto the next generation. Drawing from their work and research of Christians all around the world, Andrew and Chris help clarify the difference between persecution and everyday disagreement, grounding the discussion in a definition centered on identification with Christ. More than statistics, this conversation highlights powerful stories from the global church and invites youth workers to lift their eyes beyond their own context. You’ll be challenged to consider how learning from persecuted believers can deepen faith, shape discipleship, and form a more resilient, outward-looking Christianity among your students.

Check out opendoorscanada.org and their great resources, like the World Watch List and Arise Africa Campaign.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

263: What does the quiet revival mean for youth workers? Interview with Rob Chartrand from Briercrest

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:43:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Rob Chartrand, professor and program coordinator of Christian Ministry at Briercrest, to explore what many are beginning to notice across Canada: a growing spiritual curiosity among Gen Z. Drawing on recent research, cultural trends, and his experience forming future ministry leaders, Rob reflects on why young people are searching for meaning in a culture shaped by anxiety, nihilism, and fragmentation. He’ll talk about how youth workers might need to shift from trying to convince students that faith matters to helping them discover the depth and beauty of the Christian story. Offering a more robust gospel that acknowledges the challenges of life and helps students live a better story centered on Jesus.

Learn more about Briercrest at briercrest.ca or Rob’s podcast at churchinthenorth.ca

You can read more about the news report that Rob mentions at CTV News

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

262: Q&A with Dr. Ken Castor on leading every kind of student (and more)... Part 2

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:38:00 -0500

In part two of this extended conversation, Jeremy continues his discussion with Dr. Ken Castor as they work through more real questions from volunteer youth workers. This episode focuses especially on students who don’t fit the typical youth ministry mold (think quiet students, highly scheduled students, and those who show up for reasons other than spiritual growth). Ken challenges the assumption that youth ministry is designed primarily for extroverts and invites leaders to rethink how leadership development, discipleship, and program structures can serve every student. From redefining success beyond attendance to building ministry around real relationships, this conversation offers you some thoughtful guidance on helping students follow Jesus, no matter their personality, pace, or level of engagement.

Ken has written a number of books including the Make a Difference Bible and the Make a Difference Devotional.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

261: Q&A with Dr. Ken Castor on discipleship beyond the program (and more)... Part 1

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:26:00 -0500

Jeremy is joined by Dr. Ken Castor to continue the conversation on student leadership that began at the YWC Conference in Moncton. Drawing from decades of research and hands-on ministry experience, Ken responds to real questions from volunteer youth workers about discipling students beyond weekly programs. Over the next two episodes you’ll hear about how leadership development often happens “along the way” through everyday life, why youth ministry must move beyond event-based models, and how leaders can empower students of all personalities (not just the loud or outgoing ones). From setting healthy boundaries to partnering with parents and rethinking what success looks like in youth ministry, this conversation offers thoughtful, practical wisdom for anyone investing in the next generation of leaders.

Ken has written a number of books including the Make a Difference Bible and the Make a Difference Devotional.

See Ken at the YWC Conferences or Today's Teens Conference in early 2026.

Here are the questions Ken answers in this episode:

When the group grows and the pastor can’t do this for everyone, how do you empower and encourage volunteer youth leaders to go beyond the event and do this type of discipleship with their key students?
How do I set realistic expectations if youth ministry is not my only responsibility?
As a young student leader myself, how do I develop leader attributes in other students my age, but still being relatable and being someone they can still feel encouraged to reach regardless of my stand and theirs!
How would you handle a student that becomes too attached to you and starts to try and monopolize your time, taking you away from other students?
How do we maintain healthy boundaries — plan to protect of course but also healthy emotional boundaries with students when we are trying to get in proximity with our students?

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

Happy New Year!

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 20:35:00 -0500

Happy New Year!!!

Ministry in 2026 won’t be about having all the answers or running perfect programs. It will be about presence. Faithfulness. Listening well. Creating safe spaces where students can encounter Jesus and discover who they are in Him. And in all of it, remember this truth: you are making an eternal difference.

Some of the fruit you’ll see this year. Much of it you won’t. But none of it is wasted in God’s hands. He is at work in and through you... shaping lives, building faith, and advancing His kingdom in ways that will last far beyond this year.

We’re cheering you on as you head into 2026. May God give you wisdom, courage, joy, and endurance for the road ahead. Thank you for saying yes again this year.

Merry Christmas!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:30:00 -0500

Merry Christmas from all of us at the Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast! 🎄

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus we want to pause and say thank you. Week in and week out, you show up for teenagers, often behind the scenes and rarely in the spotlight. Your faithfulness, prayers, late nights, early mornings, and willingness to listen matter more than you know.

In a season that can feel busy and overwhelming, we pray you’re reminded that God sees you, delights in you, and is at work through you. Even on the days when it feels unnoticed or exhausting, you are making an eternal difference in the lives of young people.

Merry Christmas!

260: How do you know if you are teaching your students heresy?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:17:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by Pia Ocenar, a Catholic youth minister with experience serving students across Canada, to talk about teaching faith with clarity, care, and depth. Pia shares her own journey back to faith and offers insight into how the Catholic tradition approaches catechesis: intentionally teaching what Christians believe, how faith is practiced, and how students are invited into a personal encounter with Jesus. Together, they explore why youth workers can feel nervous about teaching theology, how to discern trustworthy resources, and why students today are often hungry for something richer than surface-level faith. As you listen, we hope you’ll reflect on how you communicate belief, practice, and experience in your ministry, and how creating space for honest questions can lead to deeper discipleship.

Pia mentioned netcanada.ca, youcat.org, realtrue.org, and Hallow.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

259: (Part 2) Why do we have to play these stupid games at youth group?

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 20:09:00 -0500

Jeremy and Sid talk about one of the most polarizing parts of youth ministry: games. Why do we play them? Do they actually matter? And how can they go so wrong so quickly? Together, you’ll hear how games can be a powerful tool for building community, creating belonging, and developing trust between leaders and students… when they’re done with intention. From thinking about games as a means to an end (and sometimes an end in themselves) to practical principles like inclusivity, age-appropriateness, timing, and clear explanation, this conversation will help you rethink game time. Whether you love games or dread them, this episode will help you see how play can support deeper ministry and healthier group culture.

You can check out our training series that talks about Play as a core responsibility of youth workers here: 4 Core Responsibilities

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

258: Why do we have to play these stupid games at youth group?

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500

Tate, Events Leader at Camp Qwanoes and a local youth pastor, shares about why games and activities matter far more than we often realize. He shares stories from camp and youth ministry that highlight how games can build trust, create shared experiences, and open the door to deeper relationships with students. You’ll hear about the difference between games that isolate students and those that foster belonging, why leader buy-in and energy matter so much, and how play can become a powerful tool for discipleship rather than a distraction from it. This conversation will help you rethink game time: not as filler, but as meaningful groundwork for gospel-centered ministry

Tate mentioned the games resources at stuffyoucanuse.org

Learn more about Qwanoes and Kaleo at one of their links:

instagram.com/qwanoes

qwanoes.ca/leadership/kaleo

qwanoes.ca

You can check out our training series that talks about Play as a core responsibility of youth workers here: 4 Core Responsibilities

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

257: What is a Gospel Advancing Youth Ministry? Interview with Greg Stier

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:55:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by Greg Stier, founder of Dare 2 Share, to talk about what happens when evangelism becomes part of the culture of a youth ministry. Drawing from new research involving hundreds of youth groups around the world, Greg explains the difference between a “typical” youth group and a gospel-advancing one. What would it look like to see leaders model faith-sharing, students trained to share the gospel relationally, and new believers intentionally discipled? The results are striking, but the heart of the conversation goes deeper: when students put their faith into action, discipleship accelerates. This episode will challenge and encourage you to see evangelism not as an extra program, but as a key leverage point for spiritual growth and long-term impact

Check out the research at dontmissit.report and watch Greg talk more about it on YouTube.

Learn more about Dare 2 Share at dare2share.org

And if you are looking for a clear way to start a faith conversation remember: Ask, Admire, Admit…

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

256: How can you have a fruitful conversation with an anxious teen?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:18:00 -0500

Jeremy is joined by Steve Zacharias to explore a topic most youth workers have wrestled with: how do you have meaningful conversations with students who are anxious, shut down, or unsure how to engage?

Steve draws from both personal experience and practical ministry to unpack how anxiety shows up in student behavior and how youth leaders can respond with empathy, curiosity, and calm. They talk about fight/flight/freeze/fawn responses, why students often seem resistant or disengaged, and what we can do to build trust, slow the pace, and help students feel seen and safe.

If you've ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “Did that even work?” this episode will help you rethink success, show up more helpfully, and ask better questions.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community or steve@youthworker.community

Here are a few of the practical next steps from Steve’s episode…

Take a deep breath before youth group—your presence matters more than your pressure
Learn to identify the four responses to anxiety: fight, flight, freeze, fawn
Regulate your own anxiety first—what tone, pace, and posture are you bringing?
Let students choose the space for deeper conversations (not always the foyer!)
Ask fueling questions to explore anxiety:

“What are you feeling? How do you feel about talking with me?”
“What’s it like for you to feel this way?”
“When did you start feeling this way?”
“What was going on at the time?”

Ask flipping questions to reframe the situation:

“If you switched places with someone else, what would you see?”
“Whose voice do you hear in the pressure you’re feeling?”
“What would you imagine Jesus saying to you in this moment?”

Avoid “why” questions—reframe with what or how to reduce defensiveness
Use Scripture gently to help students reflect, not just correct

255: How does the rise of AI chatbots actually remind us of the value of embodied discipleship relationships (and other questions about helping your students flourish)? Interview with Dr. Jason Burtt from Trinity Western University

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:55:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Dr. Jason Burtt, sociology professor at Trinity Western University and former youth pastor, to explore the intersection of culture, discipleship, and what actually helps students grow and flourish today.

From pirates and pig roasts to positive sociology and generational shifts, Jason offers insights rooted in both research and real-life youth ministry experience. This wide-ranging conversation covers how students are formed, why embodied relationships still matter in a digital age, and how the love of Jesus is the most powerful and most often overlooked discipleship tool we have.

If you're a youth worker wondering whether your investment is really making a difference, this episode is a timely and encouraging reminder that your presence, love, and consistency are shaping students more than you realize.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

You can catch up with Dr. Jason and check out Trinity Western University by heading to twu.ca

254: What should you do when it seems like your students are hiding behind a mask? Interview with Dr. Chap Clark

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:08:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy and Sid sit down with legendary youth ministry scholar and practitioner Dr. Chap Clark to unpack how cultural shifts have radically shaped the identity formation of today’s teenagers and what that means for youth workers today.

Chap introduces the idea of “avatars” (the multiple versions of self that students present in different spaces) and explains why helping young people discover and integrate their real identity in Christ through community is more urgent than ever. He shares insight from decades of research , youth work, and teaching, and offers a powerful vision for building ministry cultures that move beyond transactional relationships toward healing, belonging, and purpose.

This episode is rich, deep, and hopeful. If you want to help your students thrive as whole people in Christ, not just perform as Christian teens, don’t miss this one.

Check out Chap’s books on Amazon or see what he’s up to these days at MinistryLeadership.Church.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

253: (Part 2) Can I still lead my small group when I’m personally struggling?

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:53:00 -0500

In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Jeremy and Sid tackle a question every youth worker will face at some point: What do I do when I’m struggling personally (whether it's emotionally, spiritually, or mentally) and I still have to lead?

They explore what it means to lead with integrity while feeling emotionally off, how to understand the difference between burnout and being overwhelmed, and how Scripture reframes our emotions as meaningful but not final. With stories from camp, personal leadership failure, and wise encouragement from Scripture, this episode is for every leader who has ever shown up tired, anxious, or unsure whether they should even be there.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

252: Can I still lead my small group when I’m personally struggling?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:58:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy talks with longtime pastor, professor, and former youth leader Ian Lawson about something every youth worker eventually faces: what do you do when you’re just not feeling it?

Whether it’s emotional exhaustion, spiritual discouragement, or the weight of a busy life, there are days when ministry feels heavy and it’s tempting to pull back. Ian brings wisdom from decades of leadership, teaching, and front-line ministry to encourage youth workers not to give up too quickly, and to help us see how God meets us even in our weakness.

Here are a few of the practical next steps from Ian’s episode…

Don’t underestimate the power of simply showing up
Remember that faithfulness over time is how fruit grows in ministry
When you feel spiritual resistance or discouragement, text a friend and ask for prayer
Ask God to use even your weakness, trusting that His power is made perfect there

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

251: (Part 2) What role should you play with a student who is experiencing complicated family dynamics?

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 20:14:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy and Sid dive into a big, practical question for youth workers: What do I do when a student shares something heavy about their family?

Whether you're at camp, in a small group, or hanging out one-on-one, chances are high that a student will eventually open up about something difficult at home. Sid unpacks what your role is (and what it isn’t) when that happens. They talk about mandatory reporting, emotional boundaries, practical tools, and how to love students without taking on more than you’re called to carry.

This conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and clarity for youth workers who want to care well without burning out or stepping outside their lane.

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…

Never promise confidentiality; rather, explain that you will only tell people who can help
Create a simple incident reporting system (here is a sample of some of the questions you might include)
Know who to call: have a go-to list of professionals for legal or safety issues
Be clear about your emotional limits—don’t carry what you’re not meant to
Spend time with both high-needs and emotionally healthy students
Consider getting additional training if you’re consistently walking into deep situations

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

You can also check out the podcast that Sid mentioned where he was a guest with his son Payton here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5g3Mz9Y62HvR8GzBc8WEjb?si=11c90542bf6a4637

250: What role should you play with a student who is experiencing complicated family dynamics?

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 09:29:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by veteran youth pastor Jonathan Kornelsen from Central Community Church in Chilliwack, BC, to unpack a question that every youth worker eventually faces: How do I care for a student whose family life is messy, broken, or confusing?

Jonathan brings 20+ years of youth ministry experience into this honest, compassionate conversation about the limits and opportunities of our role as youth workers. From mandatory reporting to faithful presence, from avoiding the savior complex to knowing when to just take a kid out for ice cream—this episode offers a practical guide for navigating the mess with wisdom and love.

Whether you’re a volunteer, point leader, or ministry director, this episode will help you better support students walking through complicated family dynamics.

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…

Listen to Episode 104 – What Should You Know About Crisis, Trauma, Abuse & Neglect (interview with a police officer and social worker)
If you’re unsure about a disclosure, report it or talk to someone who can.
Be a calm, safe, trustworthy adult in a student’s life without trying to “fix” them.
Know your community’s referral resources (counselors, food banks, support workers)
Be quick to pray, often and out loud, for students navigating hard situations
Commit to the long haul—healing takes time, and your presence matters more than you know

You should also get Jonathan’s new book Youth Ministry Blueprint, available on Amazon.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

249: (Part 2) How can you help students grow in their love for Jesus and love for others?

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 20:00:00 -0500

Jeremy and Sid pick up where we left off last week, adding a few more ideas to help you reset your focus on what matters most. Jeremy and Sid explore:

Why love for God and others is the true center of youth ministry.
The vital role of anchoring students in Scripture, not just for knowledge, but to shape their affections and actions.
Why your modeling of faithfulness in whatever environment you are in matters more than you realize.

Whether you’re just stepping into a new season or coming off a hard stretch in ministry, this episode will encourage you to stay faithful, stay focused, and remember that what you do makes an eternal difference.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

248: How can you help students grow in their love for Jesus and love for others? Interview with Ben Woodman

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 13:37:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by longtime youth pastor, Alpha Youth Series co-creator, and speaker Ben Woodman for a thoughtful and practical conversation on the most important goal in youth ministry: helping students grow in their love for Jesus and their love for others.

Ben shares stories and insights from over 20 years of ministry around the world, and together he and Jeremy reflect on how easy it is to get distracted from our core calling—especially in the chaos of running programs or managing small groups. From practical ideas to deeper theology, this episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration for any youth worker who wants to make space for real spiritual growth in students.

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…

Be quick to pray with and for your students—even in spontaneous moments
Try leading a small group through a reflective prayer time using a Psalm
Play a worship song and ask students to listen for what God might say
Create retreat, camp, or night-away moments where students can encounter God
Remind students (and yourself): you don’t have to start over—God cherishes every step you’ve taken

You can also try out these resources:

Alpha Youth Series (free and online)
Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer

We sent these things out to our email list too. If you’d like to join, head to youthworker.community/contact and hit subscribe.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

247: How Does Serving as a Student Leader Grow Your Students’ Faith? Interview With Student from Moose Jaw

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:56:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy and Dawn sit down with 15-year-old Ashlynn from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to talk about how volunteering in youth ministry has transformed her faith. Ashlynn’s story is a powerful reminder that young people don’t have to wait until they’re older to start leading and making a difference.

Ashlynn shares honestly about the insecurities she faced as a new Christian and young leader, what helped her overcome them, and how God is using her story to encourage others. This episode is a great listen for youth workers who want to know how to identify, equip, and support student leaders well.

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…

Invite students to step into leadership earlier than you think
Assign real responsibilities that fit student strengths (announcements, small groups, game teams, etc.)
Offer regular check-ins and training to help young leaders grow

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

246: What Can Witnessing in High Schools Look Like? Interview With High School Students from Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:20:00 -0500

In this episode, Will sits down with two remarkable student leaders—Ethan and Wren—from the Saskatoon area to talk about the spiritual discipline of witness. What started as a simple Youth Alpha club in their school has grown into a city-wide ripple effect, inspiring students across the region (and beyond) to start conversations about Jesus with their peers.

They share the highs and lows of starting something new, including two weeks of showing up to an empty classroom before things turned around. Now, their faithful witness is sparking a movement. If you’re a youth worker wondering how to empower your students to share their faith, this conversation will provide you with an inside look at what it truly takes.

If you’ve not seen Youth Alpha, check it out here: alphacanada.org/youth

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…

Help with the logistics: pizza, space, tech, encouragement, or check-ins
Equip students to be “hosts,” not experts—safe people who create welcoming spaces
Stay connected with students running Youth Alpha: ask how it’s going, offer prayer, and celebrate progress

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

245: How Can You Help Students Wrestle with Scripture and Love It? Interview With High School Student Leader from Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:01:00 -0500

In this episode, Will sits down with Clive, a grade 12 student and youth leader at Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon, for a thoughtful and honest conversation about what it looks like to actually love and engage Scripture as a young person.

Clive shares his personal journey of growing up in the church, facing doubts, and navigating the tension between science and faith. What changed everything for him? A youth leader who made space for hard questions and walked alongside him. That mentoring relationship helped spark a deeper love for the Bible—and now Clive is doing the same for younger students.

If you’re a youth worker wondering how to help students connect with Scripture in a meaningful way, this episode is packed with practical encouragement, lived experience, and fresh insight from a student leader who’s been there.

Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…

Talk about your own Scripture habits—let students see your love for the Word
Encourage small, sustainable Bible reading goals (1 chapter or 5 minutes each day)
Be honest: admit when you don’t have it all figured out—students will value your authenticity

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

244: How Can You Help Foster a Lifestyle of Generosity in Students? Interview with Jaidon and Maximus from First Assembly Church in Calgary

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 19:46:00 -0500

As part of our series on spiritual disciplines, William Dmytrow sits down with Pastor Jaidon McCusker and student leader Maximus from First Assembly Calgary to explore the spiritual practice of generosity. This conversation dives into how young people can begin to develop habits of generosity right now—with their money, time, and everyday choices.

Maximus shares his personal story of how a small decision to give years ago sparked a lasting posture of generosity in his life. Together with Pastor Jaidon, they unpack how youth ministries can create opportunities for students to serve, give, and live generously both within and beyond the church walls.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

243: How Can the Practice of Spiritual Community Fuel Discipleship?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 19:58:00 -0500

You obviously care deeply about the discipleship of the students in your group, but what is the role of community and accountability in the midst of those relationships? University student Dayton Bracewell shares in this conversation all about his own journey from spiritual stagnation to vibrant discipline and how his understanding of the power of community and accountability has grown. The transformational role of spiritual community in your group is absolutely essential to cultivating lasting discipleship for the next generation.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

242: How Can You Help Your Students Grow in the Practice of Prayer? Interview With Students 🥳

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:06:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with a remarkable group of high school students from Moncton, New Brunswick, who are helping spark a prayer movement across their city’s schools. As part of our summer series on spiritual disciplines, this conversation focuses on the power of student-led prayer and how it’s transforming lives, schools, and churches across multiple denominations.

You’ll hear firsthand how a youth camp, a student’s quiet prayer walk, and a desire to invite God into their school has led to hundreds of students gathering weekly, forming leadership teams, praying audacious prayers, and even seeing classmates come to faith and get baptized. It’s a story of unity, revival, and how God works through simple obedience.

Looking for ideas on where to start with your group?

Create space for students to lead and pray—don’t underestimate their hunger or capacity
Invite students to ask God for “big” things: revival, transformation, salvation
Encourage student leadership teams to identify their gifts and take ownership
Start small—consistent prayer walks, student Bible studies, or Alpha lunches
Partner with other churches and schools to build unity and momentum

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

241: How Can You Help Students Train for Godliness? Interview With Will from Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:19:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Will—youth pastor at Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon—for a powerful conversation about how ancient spiritual disciplines are reshaping his youth ministry. This is the kickoff to a special series featuring youth workers and students whose lives have been changed by practicing the way of Jesus.

Will shares how challenges early in his ministry led him to rethink how he was engaging with spiritual formation practices. Now, years later, his youth ministry is thriving—not because of hype, but because students are being trained to follow Jesus for life through habits like Sabbath, fasting, prayer, and Scripture engagement.

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your students truly grow, not just attend, this conversation is a must-listen.

Learn more about Practicing the Way at their website: practicingtheway.org

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

240: What Do You Do When You’re Too Busy for Spiritual Disciplines?

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:27:00 -0500

Jeremy and Sid are back to talk about something every youth worker eventually wrestles with: what happens when you're too busy, tired, or distracted to keep up with your spiritual disciplines? Whether it's summer camp season, the back-to-school ministry crunch, or just the demands of life, it’s easy for spiritual practices to get pushed aside.

Sid offers helpful language to distinguish between guilt and shame, and reminds us that spiritual disciplines are not about earning God’s favor—they’re about posturing our hearts to grow in love for Jesus and others. They unpack how to rethink your current rhythms, adapt your practices to your life stage, and reframe everyday moments as opportunities for spiritual connection.

This episode is also a launchpad for a series of conversations with youth workers and students about different spiritual practices and how they’re impacting lives.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

239: How Should You Best Prepare For Your Role? Interview with MCS-Horizon Students

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:30:00 -0500

Noah Reed and Ryan Murray are two youth workers from Winnipeg, Manitoba who open up about how mentorship has shaped their preparation and fruitfulness in youth ministry. Both trace their ministry health and leadership development to intentional mentors throughout their lives—some formal, some unexpected.

Listen in and learn about what mentorship looks like in practice, how to find a mentor (even if no one is offering), and why both practical ministry and spiritual mentorship matter. Whether you’re a brand-new volunteer, a seasoned youth pastor, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers practical encouragement and guidance to help you grow in both your leadership and your walk with Jesus.

And as Ryan reminds us, the best mentors don’t just call out your weaknesses—they call out your strengths when you can’t see them.

Learn more about MCS-Horizon at mcs.edu/about/mcs-horizon

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

238: What Should You Say to Your Students About The End Times? Interview with Cody Matchett

Mon, 26 May 2025 14:34:00 -0500

This conversation has Jeremy sitting down with theologian, pastor, and author Cody Matchett to tackle a topic that keeps showing up—how to talk about the end times with students. This isn’t just about interpreting Revelation or breaking down scary apocalyptic imagery. It’s about offering students a vision of hope, justice, and renewal grounded in Jesus.

Cody helps reframe the “end times” as not a roadmap for escape, but a call to live as future people in the present. Listen in to hear how you can use Revelation to engage questions about evil, justice, judgment, and God’s goodness in a world that often feels uncertain.

You should pick up Cody’s book, Revelation for the Rest of Us on Amazon.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

237: What Does It Look Like to Help Students Engage the Scriptures? Interview with Hakeem Bradley

Mon, 19 May 2025 09:28:00 -0500

In this episode, recorded live at the 306 Network Gathering, Will Dmytrow sits down with Hakeem Bradley from BibleProject to talk about how youth workers can help students engage Scripture in meaningful and compelling ways. Hakeem breaks down how understanding genre, embracing hard passages, and recognizing design patterns in Scripture can transform how students read the Bible. He also unpacks fresh ways to explain the biblical metanarrative using creation–decreation–recreation, and describes how biblical authors act like filmmakers, producers, and sculptors to help us see the big picture.

Whether you're preparing a sermon, leading a Bible study, or sitting one-on-one with a student, this conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement for helping Gen Z encounter the beauty of the Bible.

Follow Hakeem on Instagram @hakeembradley1 or check out his blog at hakeembradley.com.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.

236: Are You Burning Out? How To Diagnose and Address Burnout in Ministry

Mon, 12 May 2025 09:07:00 -0500

Burnout is a common issue for both ministry leaders and volunteers. But there are surprisingly different facets of burnout and diagnosing the core issue takes some discernment and wisdom. Listen in as Steve Zacharias (Director of the Coalition) explains the issues of capacity, craving, or culture that can spark a burnout. He’ll also offer practical insights on how to address each one. The hope is that you’ll recognize the difference between being busy and feeling overwhelmed and to understand how unmet desires can fuel burnout. Whether you're leading a team or serving as a volunteer, Steve will share strategies to help you refuel and thrive.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

235: Engaging Culture with Kingdom Principles – How Should You Help Students Process Today’s Issues? Interview with Kaitlyn Cey

Mon, 05 May 2025 08:27:00 -0500

In this episode, Jeremy chats with Kaitlyn Cey, director of Inspire Our Nation, a youth organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. Kaitlyn brings her expertise in education, pastoring, and youth leadership to the conversation, discussing how youth workers can navigate the overwhelming cultural issues facing students today. She emphasizes the importance of engaging students in thoughtful conversations while grounding them in the Scriptures. By using the vision, values, and priorities of the Kingdom of God, Kaitlyn shares how youth workers can guide students in processing current cultural issues and help them build a framework for decision-making that lasts a lifetime.

Find out more about Inspire Our Nation by heading to inspireournation.com and Kaitlyn directly at kaitlyncey.com.

If you have an account, you can also see her work featured on Rightnow Media.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

234: How Can You Raise The Urgency of Reaching the Unreached With Your Students? Interview with Iris Weibel from GFA World

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 16:42:00 -0500

Iris Weibel from GFA World shares about the incredible impact of the Great Commission and how youth workers can engage students in global missions. Iris shares her powerful journey from atheism to becoming a passionate advocate for reaching the unreached. She talks about the life-changing book Revolution in World Missions and how it opened her eyes to the reality that billions of people still haven’t heard the gospel. She also highlights the importance of supporting national missionaries who are on the front lines, sharing stories of transformation and the crucial role youth workers can play in mobilizing the next generation to act.

Learn more about where Iris serves by heading to gfa.ca.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

233: There’s a Leadership Pipeline Crisis In The Church – Is The Solution In Your Youth Ministry? Interview with Jon Dixon

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:25:00 -0500

In this conversation, Jeremy sits down with Jon Dixon, Next Generations Pastor at New Minus Baptist Church in Nova Scotia, to discuss how to raise up the future leaders of the Church. With two decades of experience in youth ministry, Jon shares how he’s been able to create a thriving environment where teenagers aren’t just participants but potential pastors. From encouraging students to explore their gifts to giving them hands-on leadership opportunities, Jon reveals one of his visions for youth ministry: to graduate pastors every year. Listen in and be inspired to invest in your students in a way that prepares them for a lifetime of service in the Church.

Learn more about where Jon serves by heading to nmbc.ca.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

232: How Can You Get Feedback On The Blind Spots in Your Own Life and Leadership? Interview with Garth Friesen

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:05:00 -0500

Sometimes the biggest challenges in ministry are the ones we don’t even realize we’re carrying. In this episode, Jeremy sits down with longtime youth ministry professor Garth Friesen to talk about blind spots — those hidden habits or perspectives that can quietly hinder our effectiveness. Garth has been equipping youth workers for over two decades and brings both wisdom and practical advice for how to create a culture of feedback. Whether you’re a point leader or a volunteer, this conversation will give you a few helpful questions to ask (yourself and others) and some ideas to help you and your team grow stronger together.

Learn more about where Garth serves by heading to sbcollege.ca.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

231: How Can Your Small Group Be Open to New Students While Still Fostering Deep Connections and Relationships? Interview with Deniel Sewell

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:29:00 -0500

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

230: How Can You Help Your Students Become Friends With One Another? Interview with Roger Reid

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 10:46:00 -0500

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.com

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

229: How Can You Support Your Point Leader? Interview Jordan Michalski from The Pastorate

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

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.

228: How Do You Get More People to Care About Youth Ministry? Interview with Kara Alvaro

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:36:00 -0500

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

227: What is the Deconstruction of Christianity? Interview with Tim Barnett

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:54:00 -0500

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.

226: How Do You Develop Student Leaders? Interview with Lydia Kidd

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:04:00 -0500

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/3XiRxdZ

You can access the Renegotiating Faith research project at renegotiatingfaith.ca.

Learn more about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership at youthworker.community/coalition

Find 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/3XiRxdZ

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

225: How Can You See More Progress With Your Students? Interview with William Dmytrow

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 20:41:00 -0500

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 William 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

224: How Can You Leverage Feedback From Your Students To Make Your Ministry Healthier? Interview with Josh Smith

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 14:18:00 -0500

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

223: Hard Conversations: What Do You Do If Your Point Leader Is Disorganized?

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 20:09:00 -0500

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

115: What Are The Ways That You Should Partner With Camps This Summer?

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:46:00 -0500

REPLAY // This episode originally aired on May 24, 2021

Summer 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

222: How Can Small Group Leader Coaches Help Your Ministry? Interview with Chandra Styles

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 20:57:00 -0500

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

221: How Does The Gospel Bring Hope in the Hardest Situations? Interview with Andrew Goodman from OMF

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:34:00 -0500

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/

ANDREW GOODMAN is from the U.K. and is married to Shona, with whom he’s been serving in Southeast Asia, among transnational, unreached Buddhist peoples for more than 28 years. He has a passion to see God’s glory in places where conflict, darkness, and instability are daily realities for millions of people. Andrew has seen people who were previously lost catch the vision for their own people and even for people who were once enemies.

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

036: How Can You Connect With Your Students Through the Summer?

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 08:24:00 -0500

REPLAY // This episode originally aired on July 30, 2019

Summer 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

220: Is Your Ministry Stealing Time From Your Family?

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 20:58:00 -0500

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/coalition

Want 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

219: How Do You Lead a Teen to Jesus? Interview with Mark Miller from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 21:33:00 -0500

“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.

218: Three Questions To Ask When Connecting With LGBTQ+ Youth: Interview with Kyla Gillespie

Tue, 14 May 2024 07:47:00 -0500

“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

217: How to Foster a Culture of Prayer in Your Youth Ministry

Mon, 06 May 2024 17:28:00 -0500

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/coalition

Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

216: How Can You Coach Other Small Group Leaders?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 01:26:00 -0500

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

215: Can You Shape The Future of Your Students?

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:15:00 -0500

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

214: How Do I Deal With a Disruptive Student In My Small Group?

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 00:41:00 -0500

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

213: What Should You Do When God Doesn’t Answer The Prayers of Your Students?

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:57:00 -0500

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

212: What Shouldn’t You Share About Your Spiritual Journey With Your Students?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 02:16:00 -0500

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

211: What Questions Should You Use To Talk About Social Media With Your Students? Interview with Meisha Watson

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 00:48:00 -0500

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

210: How Do You Help Students Understand What They Think About the Bible and Its Place in Life and Faith?

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 02:24:00 -0500

A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible…

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

209: How Do You Communicate With Your Students In Between Gatherings?

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 02:35:00 -0500

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

208: Can Your Volunteer Experience Get Better Than This?

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:32:00 -0500

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

207: How Should You Interact With The Parents Or Guardians of Your Students?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 03:35:00 -0500

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

206: How Do You Nurture Gritty Faith? Four Spiritual Practices for the Next-Generation & Being a Student of Those You Lead (Interview With Ebonie Davis by CCLN)

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 01:28:00 -0500

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

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

205: What’s Better For Your Youth Ministry – Live Teaching or Video Curriculum?

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:20:00 -0500

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

204: What Should Youth Workers Know About Artificial Intelligence? Interview with Andy Steiger from Apologetics Canada

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

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 😂

You should check out Andy’s book Reclaimed: How Jesus Restores Our Humanity in a Dehumanized World.

You can also learn more about the work of Apologetics Canada by visiting their series Branded or The Human Project.

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

203: What Do You Do After a Retreat With Your Students?

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 18:59:00 -0500

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

202: What Are The Unique Challenges of Youth Ministry in a Liturgical Church?

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 00:26:00 -0500

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. And you should definitely check out this picture of the worship wheel he talks about!

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

201: How Are AI, Social Media, and Technology Influencing the Faith of Teenagers? Interview With ChatGPT

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 23:35:00 -0500

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: 😅

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

200: What’s It Like to Wrestle With Gender Dysphoria And How Can Your Ministry Be Helpful For Folks With That Challenge? Interview with Kyla Gillespie

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 00:44:00 -0500

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

199: What Are Some Frameworks To Think More Seriously About Deep Discipleship?

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 00:34:00 -0500

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

198: How Can You Help Your Students Experience God More?

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 01:14:00 -0500

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 chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

197: What Are The Critical Faith Shaping Tasks That Are Necessary For Rooting Long Term Faith In Adolescents? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 18:27:00 -0500

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 chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

196: How Can You Help Students Think About Self-Esteem and Self-Denial? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 18:04:00 -0500

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 chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

195: Does What You Do Matter to God? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

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 chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing jeremy@youthworker.community

194: How Do You Know If You’re Really Making an Impact? Interview with Jeanne Mayo

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 00:37:00 -0500

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

193: When Your Students Want To Fight For Justice, How Can You Help Them Take a Step? Interview with Ally Global Foundation

Mon, 29 May 2023 23:30:00 -0500

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

192: Should You Pressure Kids to Follow Jesus?

Mon, 22 May 2023 17:49:00 -0500

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

191: How Can You Relate Better With Teenagers?

Tue, 02 May 2023 00:56:00 -0500

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

190: What Happens When A Volunteer Leader Needs To Step Down? Interview with Rob Chartrand from Briercrest College and Seminary

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:52:00 -0500

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

189: What Are The Top Ways To Support Students As They Transition To The Next Phase Of Life?

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 00:05:00 -0500

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

188: How Do You Teach Students About Revelation? Interview With Cody Matchett

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 23:52:00 -0500

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

187: How Do You Run A Great Event For Your Students? Interview With The Team From Briercrest's Youth Quake

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:08:00 -0500

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

186: How Can You Help Students Build Resilient Faith? Interview With Ebonie Davis

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:43:00 -0500

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

185: What Do You Do If You Disagree with Leadership? Interview with Kevin Janzen

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 00:06:00 -0500

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

184: What Should You Do After Attending a Big Event? Interview With Matt Wilkinson

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 00:10:00 -0500

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

183: What Do You Do with Hyperactive Teens Who Don’t Do Well in a Class Type Environment?

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 00:53:00 -0500

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

182: What Are Your Top Struggles as a Volunteer Youth Worker?

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 00:43:00 -0500

We want to hear from YOU!

If you have a struggle that you wrestle with, would you drop it into this form?

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.

181: What Do You Do When You Have Students Negatively Influencing Other Students?

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 00:58:00 -0500

We’ve talked about loving the students who are seemingly unlovable (check out episode 42!), but what do you do when you have students who are actively impacting other students negatively? Maybe it’s feedback from parents upset that their kids have come home knowing a new curse word. Or maybe it’s that you’ve noticed the culture of your group start to slide into a place you’d rather not see it go. What are you supposed to do when it seems like one student is ruining it for the rest of them?

Join today’s conversation with Sid and Jeremy as they talk through practical steps you can take:

Clarify the purpose and culture of your ministry.
Have a one on one conversation with the student (and maybe their parents).
Have a conversation with those being influenced (and maybe their parents too!).

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

Change Conference on February 24, 2023

Today’s Teens Conference on February 25, 2023

Youth Quake by Briercrest in May.

You can check out all of YWC’s events here: https://youthworker.community/events/

We’d love to get your wisdom in these conversations by either submitting questions or helping to answer them! You can do that using this link.

180: What Are The Key Audiences You Should Focus On, What Generation Z Cares About Most, How to Deepen Bible Engagement in Your Students, And More…

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 22:14:00 -0500

In this special episode, you’ll join Mariah Smith and Jaden Neufeld from the team at the Canadian Church Leaders Network as they host a review of the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit (West). This event was hosted in partnership between CCLN and the Youth Worker Community. You can still join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit (East) on March 21-23, 2023 and be a part of changing the climate of youth ministry in Canada.

This conversation was featured first on the Canadian Church Leaders Podcast. You can find out more about these great partners at https://www.ccln.ca/

We want to see you at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

042: Randy Carter on How to Love The Unlovable Teen In Your Group? (Replay)

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 20:31:00 -0500

Happy New Year! Check out today’s replay from 2019 with Randy Carter!

You likely have (or will have at some point) someone in your group that is just really difficult to love. It’s a student who is disruptive, or one that did something awful, or one that is just mean. In those moments it can be difficult to know how to respond. In this week’s conversation, Randy Carter will share two heart-wrenching stories that have the power to help us refocus what unconditional love looks like.

You can get in touch with Randy at stmministries.com or randycarter.org. He is a speaker, consultant, and mentor to youth pastors.

Join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit March 21-23, 2023 and be a part of changing the climate of youth ministry in Canada.

Want to join thousands of Canadian youth and youth workers for an incredible conference? Check out Today’s Teen Conference.

We want to see you at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

179: Does Volunteering in Youth Ministry Make a Difference? (2022 in Review)

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 20:28:00 -0500

What a year it’s been! The end of the year is the perfect time to be reminded that the answer to whether the work you do matters is… YES! Listen in to today’s episode with the whole YWC team as they share about the difference they’ve seen volunteers make in the past year and be encouraged!

Merry Christmas!

We can’t wait to see you in the New Year for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit on March 21-23, 2023 or at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

178: What Do You Do If Your Students Aren’t Talking?

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 01:24:00 -0500

If small group time hits and you start to wonder if you’ll ever have a real conversation with your students, this episode with Steve and Jeremy is for you!

It can feel like getting through the question sheet is the goal as a small group leader, but sometimes the questions just aren’t working. Or there’s not enough. Or they just aren’t connecting with where your students are at. Whatever the struggle, be encouraged in knowing that the mark of a successful small group time is actually not just getting your students talking. But when you want to generate more conversation, listen in to learn some new ideas that will spark discussion.

Special thanks to our friends at Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan. Their mission is to equip people with ministry training, leadership development, and theological education with a commitment to make biblical and theoretical truths practical and life-related.

Check out Episode 21 if you’re wondering what to do with the student who doesn’t talk!

Join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit March 21-23, 2023 and be a part of changing the climate of youth ministry in Canada.

Want to join thousands of Canadian youth and youth workers for an incredible conference? Check out Today’s Teen Conference.

We want to see you at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

177: What Do You Do When Your Students Are Fighting with Their Friends?

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 03:46:00 -0500

As followers of Jesus we want to be the type of people that continue to keep relationships, even when conflicts arise. Modeling how to make relationships last will increase our love for one another and is worth the struggle, but will require that you help students learn more about themselves and the people that they are fighting with.

Here are the steps that Steve walks through in this conversation:

Understand Myself… This can sound like: What’s going on for you? Tell me your story. What significance does that hold?

Understand The Other… This can sound like: I wonder how that person felt when you reacted. What do you think is going on in their world? How do you think your reaction collided with the other person’s story?

Build A Boundary… This can sound like: Identify what’s going on within themselves, express their own feelings, express the desired outcome, come with a solution

Special thanks to our friends at Youth For Christ and their partnership in this season. They have two fantastic resources you should check out:

Lifeteams: If you feel like you could use some extra knowledge about big questions, check out their Lifeteams resources, which are organized by issue: https://www.lifeteams.ca/resources

Change Conference Online. This online event is happening this February and is available at: https://changeconference.com/national

We want to see you at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

176: How Should You Talk About Christmas With Your Students?

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 19:42:00 -0500

Christmas is just around the corner and the holidays are complicated at the best of times. It’s the perfect time to ask your students some questions to get a sense of how they’re entering into this season and connect their current reality to the story of Jesus.

Here’s a few questions you can ask your students to start the conversation about Christmas:

What do you know about the story of Christmas?
What about Christmas increases your anxiety? What about Christmas increases your peace and joy?
What are the highs and lows of Christmas with your family?

Special thanks to our friends at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association! Their partnership in this season helps make this podcast happen.

We want to see you at our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If you or your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

175: How Can You Help Students Find Faithful Answers to Life's Biggest Questions? Interview with Kristel Acevedo

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 20:08:00 -0500

Sometimes life gives our students way more questions than answers. And yet it seems like everyone expects them to just figure it all out! Whether they’re looking toward their future or wrestling to get through today, it doesn't have to be so stressful. You can help students process three big questions that will help them find clarity about all the rest:

Who am I?
Where do I fit?
What difference can I make?

Check out today’s interview with Kristel Acevedo all about the Fuller Youth Institute’s new resource, a devotional for students on the 3 big questions they’re asking.

Want to get the devotional for your students? fulleryouthinstitute.org/3-big-questions

Join us for our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

174: How Do You Respond to Hard Questions From Students?

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 18:11:00 -0500

If you’ve ever been having a “normal” small group time and gotten hit with a hard question that made you start sweating, this conversation with Steve and Jeremy is for you!

When students ask hard questions, they are often testing your posture and whether or not you’re actually safe to talk to. Steve pointed out that often the best answers to hard questions are more questions. Here’s a few to get you started:

Why do you ask?
What does that mean for you right now?
What do you think?
Who else do you trust to speak to this? Do you have any doubts when you talk to them?
What else is on your mind?

Join us for our Winter Conferences! Details over here: https://youthworker.community/events/

If your students have hard questions, we’d love to know! Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community

172: What Are Some Surprising Steps That Your Students Can Take In Their Spiritual Journey?

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 17:00:00 -0500

If you’ve ever wondered if your students are taking any steps in their faith, this conversation is for you! Even the most regular of youth group nights can feature important steps that your students are taking steps in their spiritual journey.

Some of the markers that we talk about include:

Focusing attention and responding to a personal question

Seeing their place in community as part of the church

Listening and honouring each other in a small group setting

Willingness to have someone pray for them

Presence or attendance

Check out episodes 6 and 49 if you’d like to continue to dive into this topic!

6: What Do I Do When My Students Hate the Small Group Questions?

49: Louie Lovoy on Helping Students Take Their Next Step Spiritually

Special thanks to our friends at Trinity Western University. Their mission is to develop godly Christian leaders: positive, goal-oriented university graduates with thoroughly Christian minds; growing disciples of Jesus Christ who glorify God through fulfilling the Great Commission, serving God and people in the various marketplaces of life. They are passionately committed to helping you discover how to be fully and faithfully present in the world and to play a vital role in God’s work of healing, hope, and renewal. Learn more about this leading liberal arts university with campuses in both Canada and the USA at TWU.ca

Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community to let us know if there’s a question you want us to hit in a future episode!

171: How Do You Find More Volunteers For Your Team?

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 18:55:00 -0500

If you’ve ever hoped that there were more volunteers on your youth ministry team then today’s conversation is for you! Even though recruiting other volunteers isn’t something you might feel responsible for, if you’d consider a few simple steps it could make a massive difference in your youth ministry.

As a volunteer youth worker you can…

Own The Gap: If you see the need in your ministry, you can own filling that gap

Make A List: You know the people you want to serve with – make a list of people you think would be a great fit for serving in your youth ministry

Make the Ask: There might be certain things your point leader needs to process with new people but you have the inside knowledge of why serving is worth it, so your ask matters!

Special thanks to our friends at Rocky Mountain College! Are you interested in exploring your faith more and understanding the background and inspiration of the Bible, its history and composition, the overarching themes and message? Rocky Mountain College is offering a FREE university level course where you’ll explore all 66 books of the Bible and understand the context in and the purpose for which they were written. You will also gain an understanding of how the various types of literary forms in which the Bible was written can legitimately be interpreted so you can better understand the message of all parts of the Bible. All of this from the comfort of your own home. Learn more today by clicking HERE.

Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community to let us know if there’s a question you want us to hit in a future episode!

170: What Should You Do With Your Students After An Event?

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 23:35:00 -0500

Whether you were at the event or not, your students will have some type of extra experience in their youth ministry journey. It might be a conference, retreat, or special trip, but in all cases you can be part making the most of that experience by supporting your students afterwards. Join today’s conversation as Sid walks you through four simple steps that will help you make the most of the events that your students take part in.

It’s not too late to check out Change Conference Online: https://changeconference.com/national

If you haven’t yet run Alpha, now is the time. Check out their free resources here: https://alphacanada.org/youth/

Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community to let us know if there’s a question you want us to hit in a future episode!

169: How Do You Engage Your Graduates Who Don’t Move Away After High School?

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 00:28:00 -0500

Today’s episode comes directly from a fellow youth worker! More and more students are choosing options other than a post-secondary education directly after their high school graduation. If those students are sticking around your context, it can be tricky to figure out if and how to continue to engage them in a new season of life. Join today’s conversation with Sid and Jeremy as they give some practical ideas of what you can do to continue to engage with those students!

Check out Christar at christar.org or book a call with their Executive Director Tristan here: https://calendly.com/tristan-kruse/missions-chat-with-tristan

Email us at jeremy@youthworker.community to let us know if there’s a question you want us to hit in a future episode!

168: How Can You Help Students Figure Out Their Future Vocation?

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 23:54:03 -0500

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

That question has been asked of your students since before they can remember. By the time they hit junior high their “answer” informs the classes they need to take to get to whatever it is they think they are chasing. There’s so much pressure for students to know exactly what they want to do and it’s unproductive and unhelpful.

As a youth worker you have the unique opportunity to speak about the bigger picture of following Jesus in any occupation. You can also release some of the pressure that your students are facing and help them discover their identity in Jesus first. But all that takes a lot of nuance and understanding, so join today’s conversation with Gustavo Santos and Brittany Ratelband as they talk about what vocation is, how it intersects with the Church, and so much more!

You can get in touch with us to talk more about our vocation presentation/curriculum or the job postings for vocational ministry across Canada or even to contribute to this conversation! The best thing to do is to email Jeremy at Jeremy@youthworker.community

Check out these great schools in our country of Canada:

Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan

Rocky Mountain College in Alberta

Trinity Western University in British Columbia

167: How Do You Get Your Students' Parents More Involved In Your Ministry?

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 14:19:46 -0500

Whether you want to ask for feedback, get to know parents or their students more, have more buy-in for your gatherings, or just see more parents utilizing your resources (aka reading your emails) – this conversation is for you! Parents WANT to get involved and are a tremendous blessing to your ministry, no matter your context. Join today’s conversation with Steve, Sid, and Jer as they give three practical steps to getting your students’ parents involved.

Want a practical resource to send to parents connected to your ministry? Check out https://youthworker.community/parentresources/

Today’s episode comes directly from a fellow youth worker in Michigan! Want to have your question featured on an upcoming episode? Email Jeremy at Jeremy@youthworker.community

166: How Can You Help When Your Students Are Stressed About School?

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 00:09:44 -0500

School is starting again which means that some (if not most) of your students’ stress levels are increasing again. Going to school is a huge commitment in a teenager’s life and it comes with a lot of pressures. Some of the pressures are honest and real. Some of them are perceived and maybe even imagined. But all of them are real to your students. Join today’s conversation with Steve Zacharias and Jeremy MacDonald as they talk about why we care if students are stressed about school and how to have a healthy curiosity that allows you to disciple students where they’re at.

Want to chat more about a specific need in your ministry or submit a question? Email Jeremy at Jeremy@youthworker.community

You can dive deeper into the topic of stress and anxiety by revisiting older episodes on this podcast…

058: What are the Differences Between Mental Health, Mental Disorders, and Mental Distress?

014: Anxiety in Students — What Can I Do to Help?

165: What Can You Do When Your Students Are Deconstructing Their Faith? Interview with Randal Rauser

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 01:53:57 -0500

Deconstruction is a hot topic in many Christian spaces. If your students are at all connected online they’ve heard people talking about it. They might even be doing it themselves. Depending on your age and stage of life, walking with students who are deconstructing can come with a lot of different emotions and varying solutions. Join today’s conversation with YWC’s Steve Zacharias as he interviews Randal Rauser (Coalition Faculty) and they talk about what you can do when your students are deconstructing their faith!

Want to learn from great people like Randal Rauser? Check out the Coalition! https://youthworker.community/coalition/

Want to chat more about a specific need in your ministry or submit a question? Email Jeremy at Jeremy@youthworker.community

If you are new to this podcast, you can find our Top 10 Podcast Episodes here: https://youthworker.community/resources/podcast/

164: How Can I Help When Teenagers Get Emotional?

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 19:07:47 -0500

Sometimes a teenager will walk into a room and you can just tell that their emotions are through the roof. As a youth worker, you have the incredible opportunity to disciple students, but that means considering their entire selves — emotions and all. While that’s easy to say, it’s much harder to act out. Especially when a student is so sad that they're bringing the whole group down, or so mad that you’re worried they’re going to punch someone, or so excited that their voice has hit new pitches and they seem to be bouncing off the walls. Join today’s conversation with Steve and Jeremy as they process how you can help when your teenagers are emotional by noticing, validating, and empowering them and their emotions!

Here’s a feelings wheels that we love: https://feelingswheel.com/

Want to chat more with Jeremy or Steve? Email them at

Jeremy@youthworker.community

Steve@youthworker.community

If you are new to this podcast, you can find our Top 10 Podcast Episodes here: https://youthworker.community/resources/podcast/

163: How Can You Redeem Digital Spaces? Interview with Andy Gabruch

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 00:22:51 -0500

As youth workers, you see the downstream effects of your students living in a digital age every time you spend time with them. Constant access to information and entertainment are marking our culture, but what do we do with it and is there a way for redemption in the midst? Join Andy Gabruch as he talks about how to understand the digital age and how you can redeem digital spaces as transformed people!

Want to check out the Information Overload Assessment? Head to https://bit.ly/3Q9gjrM

Youth pastors and parents can use promo code YP50 and your students can use STUDENT22 for a special discount for podcast listeners!

The resource includes a self-awareness page, info on how to develop healthy digital habits as followers of Jesus, how to redeem digital spaces, and an ongoing community for upcoming workshops for parents, pastors, and/or students.

Want to check out more of Andy’s work? Head to his website at andygabruch.com or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ducocollective)

Want to chat more with Jeremy or submit a question? Email him at Jeremy@youthworker.community

162: What Should You Do When Teens Come Back From Camp?

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 01:08:33 -0500

If you’ve ever spent time at camp you know that life changing and faith defining moments are almost inevitable. That means that you have the incredible opportunity to engage with any of your students who served at camp and continue to process their experience with them when they return home. Join Sid and Jeremy as they talk through questions that you can use to spark the right conversations when your students come back from serving at camp (or any major experience)!

Want to chat with your students about vocational ministry? Check out this great resource!

Want to chat more with Jeremy or submit a question? Email him at Jeremy@youthworker.community

The below questions can also be found in this document.

RESILIENCE

Was there a time you felt like giving up while you were at camp?

Were there moments that it was difficult to carry on?

What do you think caused that?

How did you respond?

Did you like the way you responded?

Do you wish you would have responded differently?

SERVING

What areas did you serve in?

What areas brought you joy?

What areas weren’t as fun?

What did you learn about yourself, your gifts, and your interests as you served?

In light of that, are there areas now, away from camp, where you wish you could get the opportunity to use those gifts, skills, and experiences to serve again?

COMMUNITY

Did you experience conflict with the people you worked with?

What caused that conflict?

How did you resolve it?

Did you like how you responded in the midst of it?

If you did it all over again, how would you respond differently?

SPIRITUAL FORMATION

How did you experience Jesus this summer?

Where did you see God at work?

How has this changed your relationship with Jesus?

Are there any practices that you did at camp that you hope to carry on now that you’re away from camp?

I’d assume that your emotions are going to change now that you’re away from camp, how do you think being in a new environment will affect your relationship with Jesus?

IDENTITY FORMATION

What did you learn about yourself?

Do you see yourself differently now than you did before camp?

Are there any areas (in terms of how you sense your purpose and/or your value) that you would like to see developed and grown now that you’re not at camp?

EVALUATION

How would you like to continue to grow?

What are some goals you have for yourself over the next 10 months?

What would you like to see happen with your relationship with Jesus?

Are there areas you would like to serve in now that you’re not at camp?

Who do you want to be when you’re at school?

Has anything changed about who you want to be or how you act with your friends?

161: How Do You Shift Your Ministry to a Small Group Model?

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 19:30:56 -0500

When you discover ways to make the most of every part of your program (check out episodes 134-142 if you’d like more about that!) you’ll probably also end up assessing what parts are most effective. That’s usually when youth workers recognize that so much life change for your students is happening in your small groups. That’s what happened for Miles Barnes and then his ministry decided to make some dramatic shifts. Join Miles and Jeremy as they talk about how Miles’ ministry made the shift to a small group model, and what they’ve seen come of it!

Connect with Miles on Instagram!

instagram.com/milesbarnes

instagram.com/ptcumcstudents

Want to chat more with Jeremy or submit a question? Email him at Jeremy@youthworker.community

160: How Do You Teach Students to Go to Church On Their Own?

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 23:47:37 -0500

Going to church can sometimes get lost in the midst of all the other responsibilities in our world today. That can be especially true for students when they graduate and have to decide to attend on their own (maybe even in a new community that they’ve moved to). But the act of going to church doesn’t have to feel like another thing on a checklist of things to complete. It doesn’t have to be regulated to a low priority. Join today’s conversation with guests Jon Berends and Sydney Sequillion as they talk about what church attendance can look like for students in your ministry (and beyond)!

Want to learn more about the programs Jon and Sydney are part of?

You can find Jon Berends at…

www.ActFive.ca

Instagram: @act_five

jberends@redeemer.ca

And you can find Sydney Sequillion at…

www.connectingstreams.com/gps

sydney.sequillion@p2c.com

159: Help! What Do I Do When My Youth Are Grieving?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 23:07:53 -0500

Loss is all around us--from change to disappointment to death. We see grief show up in ourselves and in our students. What does it look like to make space for grief in youth ministry and lead in the midst of it? Join today's conversation with Holly Bishu, Kara Allison, and Austin White as they unpack personal experiences with grief in their ministry and cover practical tips for leading amidst loss.

You can find Holly on Instagram @hollybishu

Austin is @austtinnwhite

And Kara is @kara.alllison

Check out Love Does by Bob Goff and be encouraged!

Lastly, you can dive deeper into this topic by revisiting older episodes on this podcast…

117: How Do You Walk With Your Student Through Grief and Loss? With Dr. Dorothy Hunse

005: How Should I Help Students Who are Hurting? With Dr. Marv Penner

158: How Can You Shepherd Graduating Students Well? Webinar with YWC, Alpha, and Power to Change - Students

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 18:43:40 -0500

Rolf (from Power to Change - Students) and Tim (from Alpha Youth Canada) hosted this conversation as a webinar, but we are bringing it to you through this podcast 🎉

If you’d rather watch the Shepherding Graduating Students Webinar, use this link: https://vimeo.com/716792278/1bd9ee134f

In the conversation you’ll hear:

Advice from Olivia a current post-secondary school student (feel free to show this to your youth group)
"Sending graduates as missionaries" program from Hartley at People’s Church
Jonathan Mitchell, a pastor and leader of the 604 youth network, talking about the need for the church to have a sending mentality.
P2C-S has a great “get connected” process to introduce incoming students to current students and helpful mentorship cards

Would love your feedback! If you were at the event, or when you watch or listen to this, can we get your first quick impressions so we can improve for future collaborative webinars? Three question feedback form here. https://forms.gle/nTiuJyvRnSd3Zdop7

Extra Resources

The Youth Worker Community’s Set of supportive resources and their fall tour
Alpha Youth Canada’s evangelistic training series for your church or youth
Power to Change (P2C)’s Youth Leader supports, and 8 ways to help with the change, and articles to help students through the transition to post-secondary without transitioning out of faith

Hope this is helpful and encouraging. If you've got questions, get in touch with us!

Tim with Alpha Youth Canada (tgonsalves@alphacanada.org)

Rolf with Power to Change - Students (rolf.nanninga@p2c.com)

Sid with Youth Worker Community (sid@youthworker.community)

157: What Should You Do When Your Ministry Is Lonely? Part 3: Who Are You Pouring Into?

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 23:22:24 -0500

As a volunteer you know that you have a TON of priorities in your life. So when your volunteer role gets lonely, it can be challenging to know what to do. In fact, you’ve probably wondered if it's time to walk away.

But before you make that decision, we think you should join Steve Zacharias in today’s conversation as he unpacks the three types of students that you are likely pouring into. And when you start thinking about these categories you might discover that they are out of balance, which can spark loneliness in the midst of even the most important ministry roles.

Find out about YWC Coaching here: https://youthworker.community/coaching

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Or you can submit your youth ministry question at YouthWorker.Community/Podcast.

156: What Should You Do When Your Ministry Is Lonely? Part 2: Who Are You Running With?

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 03:02:41 -0500

But before you make that decision, we think you should join Steve Zacharias in today’s conversation as he unpacks the three types of people you need in your life. Because there’s a good chance that the struggles you are facing could be solved in a surprising way.

Find out about YWC Coaching here: https://youthworker.community/coaching

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Or you can submit your youth ministry question at YouthWorker.Community/Podcast.

155: What Should You Do When Your Ministry Is Lonely? Part 1: Who’s Pouring Into You?

Mon, 30 May 2022 21:21:50 -0500

Find out about YWC Coaching here: https://youthworker.community/coaching

You can access the Orange Masterclass over here: https://thinkorange.com/orange-masterclass/creating-a-small-group-culture

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Or you can submit your youth ministry question at YouthWorker.Community/Podcast.

154: How Should Teenagers Interact With Their Phones and Other Devices? Interview with Brett Ullman

Tue, 24 May 2022 00:11:05 -0500

What do you hope your students’ relationship is like with their phone? What’s the ideal way for an adolescent to interact with technology? What’s the right amount of screen time per day?

These are the questions that we should be wrestling with as youth workers. Instead, teenagers often see adults simply becoming frustrated around their use of technology. But what if we could be thoughtful about the conversation and think strategically about how to help teenagers practically engage better with the devices that are so accessible to them? That’s where the conversation goes in today’s interview with Brett Ullman!

Want to check out Brett’s last episode on the podcast? Check it out here: https://youthworker.community/ep149

Want to dive deeper into some resources? Check out:

Books Brett recommends by category: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/brettullman

His new book, Navigating Everything: https://amzn.to/2ZRKZGf

Want to connect with Brett? Check out his:

Website - www.brettullman.com/

Youtube - www.youtube.com/brettu

Instagram - @BrettUllman

Twitter - @BrettUllman

Facebook - www.facebook.com/brettullman11

TikTok - @BrettUllman

Here’s some other links that Brett thinks you might find helpful:

Complete Guide to Parental Controls - www.wizcase.com/blog/guide-to-parental-controls/

Best parental control apps - youtu.be/qyQouXdhpm4

Interesting Tik Tok Article - www.brettullman.com/2021/07/24/tiktoks-algorithm/

How to have a Family Meeting - youtu.be/MWLDdlTU7wo

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

153: Should You Burn All Your Students' Secular Music?

Tue, 17 May 2022 00:37:57 -0500

The media landscape continues to morph and change, but what isn’t new is the need for critical discernment of the media that we all consume (teenagers included)! But how do you actually teach healthy discernment and the pursuit of holiness without just veering into behaviour modification? Join today’s conversation with Tyler Rody, a youth worker in Saskatoon, as he unpacks some thought provoking ways that we as youth workers can search our own hearts before helping our students with the media that they are entertained by.

You should definitely check out cpyu.org for some great resources – especially their 3D Media Reviews.

We referenced TheYQList by AJ Crocker, which hasn’t been updated in a couple years but still has some goodies on it!

You can learn more about Tyler Rody by following him on Instagram (@lifeofarody)

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthworker.community/podcast.

152: How Can You Thrive (Not Just Survive) in Jr. High Ministry?

Tue, 10 May 2022 00:19:46 -0500

Youth ministry is an important calling no matter what your role.

But for those of you who are Jr. High small group leaders there are special rewards in heaven for you.

Sure it can be challenging to keep a Jr. High small group on topic from time to time, but the real challenge is that it’s also this fast changing time developmentally, socially, physically, and emotionally for those students. And unfortunately they don’t all mature at the same rate 😂.

All that said, today’s conversation features three youth workers who have extra experience working specifically with Jr. High kids. And the great news is that they honestly have incredible stories to tell about what God is doing in the lives of the young people in their groups.

You can learn more about Deniel, Kiara, and Colin at their churches’ websites:

Deniel Sewell: https://connexuschurch.com/

Kiara Moshansky: https://spac.ca/

Colin Lancelot: https://thisisvillagechurch.com/

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

151: What Do You Do When The News Headlines Are Bad For Christians?

Mon, 02 May 2022 23:44:59 -0500

Have you ever seen a public story about when a Christian did something wrong? It could be a national news headline or it could be something a friend shared on social media. Either way, you don’t have to look far to see the effects of sin amongst those that call themselves Christians.

But when those stories reach your students, what are you supposed to do? How can you speak truth to terrible circumstances? Is it worth processing every bad news headline?

Join today’s conversation with Sid Koop, Lisette Fraser, and Jeremy MacDonald as they talk about the ways that we as volunteers can engage difficult conversations with our students about the brokenness in our world today.

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

150: Should You Do Youth Ministry Different When The Church Is No Longer Trusted In Culture?

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 01:42:57 -0500

You probably have noticed it on the news. Or on social. Or in politics. Or maybe even in your home and workplace.

The Church is increasingly distrusted by those outside it (and distrusted by some of those inside it too!). But what do you do when culture doesn’t value church or faith like it used to? Should your approach as a youth worker change?

Join today’s conversation with Sid Koop, Lisette Fraser, and Jeremy MacDonald as they talk about the ways that ministry can shift in post-Christian contexts.

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

149: What Should You Know About The Changing Technology Landscape As A Youth Worker? Interview with Brett Ullman

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 00:13:38 -0500

The world is changing fast--the technology and media that your students are navigating are significantly different from the what they were navigating even just a year ago. It is such a huge part of your students’ lives, so what is your responsibility in the midst of it? Join today’s interview with Brett Ullman to learn more about what you should know about technology and media in today’s world!

Want to dive deeper into some resources? Check out:

Books Brett recommends by category: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/brettullman

His new book, Navigating Everything: https://amzn.to/2ZRKZGf

The Center for Parent and Youth Understanding: cpyu.org

Common Sense Media: commonsensemedia.org

Axis’ Culture Translator: axis.org/ct/

Want to connect with Brett? Check out his:

Website - www.brettullman.com/

Youtube - www.youtube.com/brettu

Instagram - @BrettUllman

Twitter - @BrettUllman

Facebook - www.facebook.com/brettullman11

TikTok - @BrettUllman

Here’s some other links that Brett thinks you might find helpful:

Complete Guide to Parental Controls - www.wizcase.com/blog/guide-to-parental-controls/

Best parental control apps - youtu.be/qyQouXdhpm4

Interesting Tik Tok - www.brettullman.com/2021/07/24/tiktoks-algorithm/

How to have a Family Meeting - youtu.be/MWLDdlTU7wo

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Or submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

148: What Do You Do When Something Significant Comes Up In Small Group That Changes The Course Of The Conversation?

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Have you ever been in the middle of small group and the conversation takes a dramatic turn that you weren’t expecting? How should you respond in those moments? If you’ve created a safe space for your students you can expect for your conversation to be derailed at some point with some heavy topics. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the final part of the small group series, this conversation being all about what you can do when conversations take a turn you weren’t expecting.

Other Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast Episodes that you might find helpful…

011: Self-Injury -- How Do I Help and What Do I Need to Know? Interview with Dr. Marv Penner

005: How Should I Help Students who are Hurting (Part 1)? Interview with Dr. Marv Penner

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

147: What Do You Do When You Have a Student Who Can’t Engage Well With Your Small Group?

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0500

If you’ve been part of a small group it is almost inevitable that things have felt out of control at some point and you may have wondered if there was any way to get back in control. But sometimes it’s simply because the environment of your group isn’t conducive for everyone to engage. In fact, you might have a student who just can’t engage well with your group in it’s current structure. What are you supposed to do in that situation? Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in this conversation all about what you can do to make your small group a safe space for students coming from diverse circumstances.

Want to connect with Capernaum ministries to talk more about your specific scenario? You can learn more about them through their website at https://capernaum.younglife.org

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

146: How Can You Set Up Your Small Group For Success So It Doesn’t Get Out of Control?

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Setting your group up for success with clear goals and helpful expectations is your best chance at keeping conversations on track. But that means as the leader you have to have an understanding of the role and goal of your small group. Join in the conversation today with Sid, Lisette, and Jer as they talk through the language you can use so everyone in your group knows how to best participate in the group!

Other Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast Episodes that you might find helpful…

123: What Makes a Great Small Group Leader? Interview with High School Students from Village Church Youth

073: What Should You Do With a Teen Who is Immature in Your Group?

028: What Do You Do With Bullying Between Students?

006: What Do You Do When Your Students Hate the Small Group Questions?

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

145: What Do You Do When Your Small Group Is Out Of Control?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Have you ever been leading your small group and things just seemed to get out of control? Maybe in the moment you wondered if there was something that you could do better. Or maybe you just gave up and hoped for next week to be better. Let us encourage you – even in the worst of circumstances there’s always a way to regain control! Every group has experienced it at some point, so know that you are not alone. With a few practical steps you can help your group to refocus and get back on track. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in what will be a four week series all about what you can do when your small group seems to get out of control.

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

144: What’s New and Different About The Mental Health Journey of Our Students? Interview with Brett Ullman

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 21:00:00 -0500

“Youth ministry is messy… and so is mental health.”

Mental health has always been a thing, but the conversation surrounding it definitely changes. In today’s world, it is so important to feel equipped to have conversations around mental health with your students, even if it's a bit messy. Join today’s conversation with Brett Ullman as he unpacks how you can make your ministry a safe space for students and have conversations about their mental health.

Want to dive deeper into some resources?

Check out books that Brett recommends: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/brettullman

Check out Brett’s new book Parenting: Navigating Everything: https://amzn.to/2ZRKZGf

Want to connect with Brett?

Website - www.brettullman.com

Youtube - www.youtube.com/brettu

Instagram - @BrettUllman

Twitter - @BrettUllman

Facebook - www.facebook.com/brettullman11

TikTok - @BrettUllman

Here’s some other links that Brett thinks you might find helpful:

Complete Guide to Parental Controls - www.wizcase.com/blog/guide-to-parental-controls/

Best parental control apps - youtu.be/qyQouXdhpm4

Interesting TikTok - www.brettullman.com/2021/07/24/tiktoks-algorithm/

How to have a Family Meeting - youtu.be/MWLDdlTU7wo

10 Ways to Make Your Church a Safe Place for Those Who Struggle with Mental Health - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6F0bVyi55Y&t=2s

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

143: What Do Great Small Group Leaders Do For Their Students After High School? Interview with Sarah Trouborst From Power To Change

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 22:00:00 -0500

Ever wonder what the markers are of students who continue to follow Jesus in their university years? And are there things that you can do to help your students continue walking with Jesus even after high school? Join the conversation with Sarah Trouborst as she shares stories from the trenches of ministry on Canadian university campuses to answer those questions.

As Sarah mentions, one of the best things you can do is connect students with a Christian community. There are Christian campus groups at many of the Canadian universities. You can search through the lists from these three organizations:

https://p2c.com/students/campuses/

https://navigators.ca/campus/

https://ivcf.ca/campus/connectoncampus/

In the intros to today’s episode Rolf Nanninga invited you to share the Power to Change scholarships with your students. You can access those now at this lnk: https://p2c.com/students/scholarships/

Renegotiating Faith was a research project that dives deeper into today’s topic. You can access it for free at: https://p2c.com/renegotiating-faith/

Here's a few articles you might find helpful:

https://p2c.com/students/resources/life-after-youth-group-8-ways-to-help-with-change/

https://p2c.com/students/articles/how-to-help-your-child-succeed-spiritually-while-at-university/

https://p2c.com/students/resources/seven-plus-two-resources-to-help-students-prepare-for-post-secondary/

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

142: How Do You Make The Most of Your Program Before It Even Starts

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:00:00 -0500

Here’s what we know at the end of this series… Your program matters a lot. It creates space for you to shepherd your students, ultimately so that they can know Jesus. But even before it starts there are a few simple things you can do to make the most of the time to come. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the final episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

141: How Do You Make The Most of Times Outside of Program Moments?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 22:40:01 -0500

So… outside of program moments are by nature not a part of your program. BUT, big and small, they can play a huge role in the lives of your students (and their families). Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the next episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program… even if it’s not in the context of your program!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

140: How Do You Make The Most of The Farewell Portion of Your Program?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 21:09:23 -0500

It’s finally the end of the program – congrats! The end of the night, depending on your context, could mean hanging out with students, cleaning up, or maybe you just get to leave as soon as all the small groups wrap up. No matter what the context though, there are still a few easy things you can do to leave everyone with a fond farewell that make your ministry better! Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to how it could be more effective. We know that as volunteers there are enormous opportunities for us to help each part of the program become more helpful for the core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the next episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

139: How Do You Make The Most of Hang Time During Your Program?

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 23:13:03 -0500

You made it through small group time… you made it!

Almost.

There’s still time to increase relationships, make a memory, and release tension! Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to how it could be more effective. We know that as volunteers there are enormous opportunities for us to help each part of the program become more helpful for the core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the next episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Want to check out our volunteer video resource on how you can Engage and Play, Guide and Pray? Send us an email and we’ll hook you up! Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

138: How Do You Make The Most of Small Group Time?

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:08:04 -0500

Alone. With middle schoolers. For an extended period of time?!? Most people’s worst nightmare… but you know it as small group time. The goal of your program is (hopefully) to disciple students to know, love, and serve Jesus for a lifetime. And small group is time that is set up for you to do just that. But how can you leverage it to be the best it can be? Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to how it could be more effective. We know that as volunteers there are enormous opportunities for us to help each part of the program be helpful for the core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the next episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Want to learn more shepherding, mentoring, and equipping as a leader?

Check out They Smell Like Sheep by Dr. Lynn Anderson!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

137: How Do You Make The Most of The Teaching Time of Your Program?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:40:50 -0500

Once things start at the front of the room, (whether it’s for announcements, teaching time, or anything else) if you aren’t the one with the microphone it can feel like you’re off the hook. But how can you make the most of the upfront time, even if you aren’t upfront? Are there things that you can do to help the upfront time connect better with your students? Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to how it could be more effective. We know that as volunteers there are enormous opportunities for us to help each part of the program be helpful for the core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the fourth episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

136: How Do You Make The Most of Game Time?

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:26:10 -0500

At their best, games grow community and create shared experiences in your youth ministry. At their worst, they’re time killers that aren’t even fun. So how can you use games in such a way that everyone is invited, all students can be engaged, and lasting memories can be created? Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to the parts that could be more effective. But if we would look at everything as if we are first time guests it can be helpful and revealing. Not only that, but as a volunteer there are enormous opportunities for you to help each part of your program be helpful for your core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the third episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Check out these awesome resources if you need game ideas and more!

The Source 4 Youth Ministry

Download Youth Ministry

Grow Curriculum

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

135: How Do You Make The Most of Welcome and Check In?

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 02:16:09 -0500

Welcome and check in can be awkward. A formal check in process can feel impersonal and like something only large youth groups do. But what if it allows you to know when a certain student has missed a few weeks? Small talk can be great with new students, but painful with students who have been coming to your ministry for months but aren’t in your small group. But what if it shows them that you’ve been paying attention and that your ministry is a place where they are known? Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to the parts that could be more effective. But if we would look at everything as if we are first time guests it can be helpful and revealing. Not only that, but as a volunteer there are enormous opportunities for you to help each part of your program be helpful for your core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the second episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

134: How Do You Make The Most of The Drop Off Time of Your Program?

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 01:08:25 -0500

Remember the last time that you went somewhere for the first time? It can be an unnerving experience. Which door is the right one to enter? Where can you find someone to answer your questions? And is it easy to do the thing that you came here to do? Sometimes as youth workers we can become so familiar with our program that we are blinded to the parts that could be more effective. But if we would look at everything as if we are first time guests it can be helpful and revealing. Because as a volunteer there are enormous opportunities for you to help each part of your program be helpful for your core mission. Join Sid, Lisette, and Jer in the first episode of this series all about making the most of every part of your program! Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

133: How Do You Mentor Students Who Don’t Attend Regularly Because They’re Engaged In Sports?

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 16:12:22 -0500

Your students have a lot of pressure to perform in a lot of areas of life and that will always lead to making decisions on what they can and can’t be at. So what happens when their decision is sports over regular programming at your youth ministry? Are they still your responsibility to care for? Join Sid and Lisette as they talk about the ways you can continue to show up and mentor students, even if they don’t always come to programming!

Do you have a specific situation that you would love to talk more about? We would love to hear from you! You can connect with Jeremy via email at Jeremy@YouthWorker.Community

Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor, Trinity Western University. Their mission is to develop godly Christian leaders: positive, goal-oriented university graduates with thoroughly Christian minds; growing disciples of Jesus Christ who glorify God through fulfilling the Great Commission, serving God and people in the various marketplaces of life. They are passionately committed to helping you discover how to be fully and faithfully present in the world and to play a vital role in God’s work of healing, hope, and renewal. Learn more about this leading liberal arts university with campuses in both Canada and the USA at TWU.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

131: How Can You Do Youth Ministry For The Long Haul? Interview with Michael Streilein

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 15:30:19 -0500

Depending on the season you are currently in, the thought about doing youth ministry for another decade, year, or even month might be difficult to process. But you should know that longevity is worth pursuing and so often leads to increased impact in the lives of your students! Check out today’s episode with Michael, a student ministries pastor in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan about how his youth ministry has grown because of the culture of long term relationships.

You can find our more about Michael’s church at https://cornerstoneyxe.ca

Want to learn more about our coaching cohorts? Check it out at https://www.youthworker.community/coaching/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

130: What Are The Questions the Next Generation Wrestles With That Every Pastor Should Consider? Interview with Kara Powell

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 20:30:26 -0500

Kara Powell is a veteran of researching young people and bringing practical ministry ideas to pastors and leaders in churches. Jason Ballard sat down with Kara to hear some of the latest research being released in her new book 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager.

They begin by highlighting why this all matters and what is at stake when we talk about discipling kids and youth in our communities. Kara highlights both the ways churches can impact the lives of young people positively, but also how young people can help transform churches. Going off research from past projects as well, Kara shares about what churches reaching young people are doing well and how pastors of kids and youth ministries are best discipling their people to follow Jesus.

Jason also explores with Kara the ways parents are the primary way of discipling young people and what it means for pastors to partner with them. They talk about ideas and tactics that have been effective at encouraging parents and building relational trust with parents that pastors can look to implement.

Dr. Kara E. Powell is the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute (FYI) and Chief of Leadership Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary. The mission of FYI is to equip diverse leaders and parents so faithful young people can change our world. Named by Christianity Today as one of “50 Women to Watch”, Kara completed her PhD in Practical Theology from Fuller Seminary with a focus on Pastoral Role Expectations in 2000, an MDiv from Bethel Theological Seminary in 1994, and a BA degree with Honors from Stanford University in 1991. In addition to her roles at Fuller Seminary, Kara serves as a Youth and Family Strategist for Orange and volunteers in student ministries at Lake Avenue Church in Pasadena. She is the co-author of 3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager, Faith in an Anxious World, Growing With, 18 Plus, Growing Young, The Sticky Faith Guide for Your Family, Sticky Faith Curriculum, Can I Ask That?, Deep Justice Journeys, Essential Leadership, Deep Justice in a Broken World, Deep Ministry in a Shallow World, and the Good Sex Youth Ministry Curriculum.

Access her new book by heading to https://fulleryouthinstitute.org/3-big-questions

This episode was recorded for the Canadian Church Leaders Podcast. You should learn more about the podcast and other great things that Jason and his team are up to by heading to www.ccln.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

129: How Should You Measure Your Ministry? Interview with Nathan Archer

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 00:21:09 -0500

We like to measure what we do in order to see how successful it is. Sometimes we do this intentionally and sometimes it happens just subconsciously. It can feel like you rocked an event when attendance is double your usual group. But when only half your small group shows up one week you might be tempted to feel like a failure. Attendance is one of the easiest metrics to track - it’s straightforward, quantitative, and simple to report back to whoever needs to know. But what if attendance isn’t the best or only metric to measure your success? Join Sid and Nathan Archer on today’s episode as Nathan shares what his youth ministry measures that defines their success beyond attendance.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team. And if you’d like access to the Core Four Responsibilities videos that Sid mentioned, email Jeremy at Jeremy@YouthWorker.community.

128: Is It Honestly Worthwhile That Teenagers Get Saved? Interview with Jason Ballard

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 00:00:47 -0500

Invite Jesus into your heart. Cross the line of faith. Become a Christian. Confess and repent. Salvation. It has a lot of names or descriptors, but are we honestly concerned about seeing students make that important decision? Of course we are. Yet, in the busyness of our youth ministries, sometimes we miss the opportunity to emphasize that core belief that a student can turn their life over to Jesus. Join the conversation as we wrestle with why we might experience some hesitation and what we might do to correct that.

We have loved seeing you in person during our On The Road tour! We still have some stops left, and you can check them out here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

127: What Can You Do When A Student Is Experiencing Anxiety or Despair? Interview with Will Hutch

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 17:32:15 -0500

The intersections between faith and mental health have become more and more prominent over the past couple years, and it is still so easy to feel unequipped and unqualified to do anything other than pray and refer when students share about their anxiety and/or despair. But what if every caring adult (not just licensed mental health professionals) can do something and be part of the solution? Join us today with Will Hutch, coauthor of the Seen Book with Dr. Chinwe Williams, as he gives us some proven and practical things you can do to promote healing with students experiencing anxiety and despair.

Check out Will & Dr. Chinwe’s book at theseenbook.com

You can follow Will on instagram @WillHutch

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October and November! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

126: How Can You Call Teenagers To Live A Life of Sacrifice and Purpose? Interview with Richmond Wandera from Compassion

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 23:26:29 -0500

Sometimes you might assume that the students in your group are only looking for comfort, entertainment, and fun. After all, the world we live in is complex and your students have a ton of pressures that they deal with every day. However, we know that the call of Jesus is to live a life of sacrifice and purpose--and you play an integral part in helping your students realize that! Join us on today’s episode with Richmond Wandera from Compassion as he talks through how he has called young people to live a life of sacrifice and how the sacrifice of a high school girl changed his life forever.

Want to hear more of Richmond’s story? Check out this video: https://vimeo.com/623679494/fc32d1a69f

Want to check out more from the Youth Worker Community and Compassion? Check out this link: https://www.youthworker.community/project/povertychallenge/

Want to get involved with Compassion Canada? Check out the work they are doing here:

https://www.compassion.ca/good/

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October and November! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

125: How Should Youth Workers Position Themselves In Conversations Surrounding First Nations Communities?

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 23:37:05 -0500

As Christians wanting to be positive witnesses to our culture, sometimes we wrestle with wondering what we are supposed to do when we learn about atrocities. On top of that, when atrocities have been committed in the name of Jesus, the stakes are even higher for us. That’s the position that we find ourselves in when we consider how much hurt has been done to our First Nations neighbours in the name of Jesus. We can lead this generation of young people to a place where they can bring hope, healing, and a way forward, but it’ll require we listen and learn. Join us in today’s podcast with Pastor Andrew Russell about how we can position ourselves as followers of Jesus in conversations with First Nations communities.

You can follow Andrew @Journalist_LMG on most platforms

Check out these resources Andrew recommends:

Indigenous Writes by Chelsea Vowel

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action (https://nctr.ca/records/reports/)

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October and November! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

124: Should You High Five People When You Gather Again?

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:25:15 -0500

As things continue to change, knowing how to respond to people when you gather in person is a bit of a moving target. But there are some principles that can help guide you and your ministry whenever you do connect with people. Ask yourselves, are there any students who might not feel safe? Because you can’t assume everyone feels the same way as you do. Listen in to today’s conversation as Jason Ballard joins Sid and Jeremy to sort out how to take cues from kids and families in this season.

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October and November! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

123: What Makes a Great Small Group Leader? Interview with High School Students from Village Church Youth

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 19:05:52 -0500

Ever wonder what your students think about being in your small group? In today’s conversation you’ll hear from Village Youth students Rocco, Emma, and Mackenzie as their youth pastor (Justin) interviews them all around their experience in their small groups.

They discuss things like:

Wanting more time in their small groups
How their group has impacted their faith
Being vulnerable as a high school student in small groups
What they love about their small group leader

You can learn more about Village Church at https://thisisvillagechurch.com/

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

122: What Should You Take With You (and Leave Behind) From This Past Season?

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:05:43 -0500

As life is changing once again, are you prepared to be thoughtful about what you’ve learned from this past season? Some things that you have been part of over the pandemic have actually been really helpful and useful. Some things haven’t. It’s critical to take ownership (both personally and thinking about your ministry) over what should continue and what should stop as you look to the next season.

You are invited to the FREE Youth Ministry Online Summit, a two part event that will inspire you and your whole team on the most important things pertaining to ministry this fall. One part is specifically for youth ministry staff and it happens live on August 11. The other is for youth ministry volunteers and it is available for download on September 11. Register today at http://youthministryonlinesummit.com/

To track with what Jason Ballard is up to, head over to https://ccln.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

121: What Are The Four Core Responsibilities of Every Youth Worker?

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 14:32:45 -0500

No matter your context, there are certain responsibilities every youth worker has. On today’s episode, Sid and Jason break down four core responsibilities that can and should shape the work you do as a youth worker. When you are clear about what matters most, you and your ministry will be more confident that what you are doing makes an eternal difference.

Want to hear more about the four core responsibilities? The only way to get them is by registering for our On The Road tour in October! Register today and receive immediate access to all five training videos, along with access to any one of our tour stops: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

120: How Do We Help Teenagers In Crisis?

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:27:36 -0500

Crisis is bound to happen in your ministry, and no matter the magnitude there are certain things you can always do to faithfully walk your students through. Sid and Jason will walk you through what it means to be patient, present, and prayerful, even in the midst of difficult crises.

Today’s conversation between Sid Koop and Jason Ballard is a special episode taken from a video series that they recorded together on the 10 Essentials of Volunteering in Youth Ministry. The rest of the series covers topics such as:

How do we keep our Youth Ministry safe?

How do we model spiritual disciplines?

How do we partner with parents?

How do we grow meaningful relationships with teenagers?

Want to check out the other 9 Essentials for Youth Workers? Check out

https://www.youthworker.community/10essentials/

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour in October! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

119: Four Things You Might Have Learned About Discipleship Through the COVID Season

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 23:46:27 -0500

COVID forced us all to pivot and to pivot fast. We had no choice but to react, and reactions don’t often make for the best of decisions. Even so, and as the world starts to open back up, now is a great time to reflect on what worked well and what you are glad to leave behind. Join Kaitlyn and Jesse on today’s episode as they talk about their four biggest takeaways from this season in their contexts!

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

If you’d like to hear more about the Coalition, our unique apprenticeship based training program and degrees, you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

118: What Does A Presence Driven (Holy Spirit Led) Ministry Look Like?

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 14:34:14 -0500

We know that experiences are the one thing that nobody can take from you or your students. That’s why things like camp and serving together can make as much (or even more) of a difference in a student’s life as a year of programming. But what if you could create space every week for students (and you) to experience God in amazing ways? On this week’s episode, Jeremy Albrecht dives into the gritty and practical ways to do just that and shares stories of the moments that God has moved like he couldn’t have imagined.

You can check out Jeremy Albrecht’s podcast here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-matters-podcast/id1186329173

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour! You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

If you’d like to hear more about our unique apprenticeship based training program and degrees you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

117: How Do You Walk With Your Student Through Grief and Loss?

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 00:02:38 -0500

A student in your ministry experiences a loss… What should you say? What shouldn’t you say? What should you do? Is there a right way to process grief? What do you do when a student uses their losses as a means of generating more attention?

These are big questions and worth processing with someone who has professionally trained lots of folks for ministry in even the most difficult of circumstances. Dr. Dorothy Hunse from Acadia Divinity College joins us today to answer these questions and more! No matter where you’re at, you are wonderfully positioned to be helpful in walking with your students through grief.

Dorothy also wrote a blog post about grief and loss, and you can check it out here: https://www.youthworker.community/what-is-grief/

Want to be more equipped? Check out the following resources from Alan Wolfelt:

Center for Loss & Life Transitions

Finding the Words

Counseling Skills for Companioning the Mourner

If you’d like more ideas on how to equip your youth ministry team to walk with students through grief and loss you should join us for a webinar with some of the experts from Acadia Divinity College. Register now at this link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEqd-qprD0jHtDQwfTxzGxKDFisMH74Mswn

Acadia Divinity College’s Master of Arts degree is designed to equip you for leadership roles in church and society. This program contains foundational study in Biblical studies, Christian thought, a broad introduction to ministry, and an opportunity to specialize in an area of ministry interest, such as Next Generation Ministry or Pastoral Care and Counselling. Learn more at www.AcadiaDiv.ca

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour. You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

116: What Can You and Your Students Do To Help End World Hunger?

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 15:24:10 -0500

Historically it’s been challenging to have various faith organizations and denominations partner together, but the Canadian Foodgrains Bank has managed to bring many together with the common goal of ending world hunger. Listen in as Pugeni and James chat about why there is still hunger, its local and global complexities, and the ways you can join the movement to end world hunger! Pugeni also shares his personal experience with hunger, coming to Canada from Zimbabwe, and how our cultural lens shapes our global perspective.

You should download the Hunger for Justice guide for use in your group: www.foodgrainsbank.ca/hunger-for-justice.

Want to advocate with the Peace & Justice Office? Check out this link to get connected: https://mcccanada.ca/get-involved/advocacy/ottawa

Want to check out the Mennonite Central Committee regional offices? https://mcccanada.ca/contact

Watch the replay of the webinar we hosted along with the Canadian Foodgrains Bank by following this link: https://www.youthworker.community/project/christianresponsetohunger/

We want to see YOU in person during our On The Road tour. You can keep up to date with our plans and pivots here: https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

115: What Are The Ways That You Should Partner With Camps This Summer?

Mon, 24 May 2021 19:56:44 -0500

Summer camp has historically been a pivotal place for the spiritual development of the next generations. We know camp might look different this summer, but that doesn’t change the fact that if you have students connected to a summer ministry that 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.

You can access the documents that Jared mentioned in the intro by dropping your email into this form: https://ywcommunity.typeform.com/to/KjMBpbAR

You should also join Janna, Jared, and the team from Intervarsity for a live (and recorded) webinar all about how to partner with the greatest mission field that students have--their schools. Register today at this link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIocOquqT4tEtW5dAEqWnHvi2wH6tI7SXJm

If you’d like to hear more about our unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

114: How Can I Reach More Students and Be a Helpful Partner For Their School?

Tue, 18 May 2021 01:42:27 -0500

Do you want to engage with more students? Outside of their home, the number one place students spend their time is school. But schools are often off-limits to Christian leaders… Or are they? Join Janna and Jared from InterVarsity Christian Fellowship as they share about their time in schools… even public schools!

You can access the documents that Jared mentioned by dropping your email into this form: https://ywcommunity.typeform.com/to/KjMBpbAR

Want to chat more with Janna? You can contact her at JEhrenholz@ivcf.ca

If you’d like to hear more about this unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

113: How Can You Lead Your Students to Respond to Hunger (and other injustices) in the World?

Tue, 11 May 2021 00:42:48 -0500

As Christians, Jesus calls us to feed the hungry. As youth workers, we are called to disciple the next generation in the ways of Jesus. Sometimes those calls feel simple, and other times insurmountable. And oftentimes it can be challenging to process both of those calls in light of each other. Listen in as Roberta Gramlich from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and Denise Van Wissen talk about the ways that we can respond to hunger effectively, but also in light of your calling as a discipler of students.

Our friends over at Canadian Foodgrains Bank have put together a learning and reflection guide to help your youth ministry deepen their understanding of justice, poverty, and global hunger from a Christian perspective.

You can download the guide here: www.foodgrainsbank.ca/hunger-for-justice.

You can also sign up for a live (and available afterwards on demand) webinar where you’ll be introduced to the work that Christian communities across Canada are doing through the Foodgrains Bank to support communities around the world who experience hunger. You’ll also receive a walkthrough of the learning and reflection guide for youth groups, which offers step-by-step ideas that you can use to inspire students to learn more about global hunger and help them process the practical steps they can take. Responding to hunger starts with giving, praying, learning, and advocating--all of which will be covered through this guide that you can use in your ministry starting this week.

Follow along with resources that we are releasing by following us on Facebook (facebook.com/ywcommunity) or Instagram (instagram.com/ywcommunity)

Special thanks to this episode’s other sponsor, Trinity Western University. Their mission is to develop godly Christian leaders: positive, goal-oriented university graduates with thoroughly Christian minds; growing disciples of Jesus Christ who glorify God through fulfilling the Great Commission, serving God and people in the various marketplaces of life. They are passionately committed to helping you discover how to be fully and faithfully present in the world and to play a vital role in God’s work of healing, hope, and renewal. Learn more about this leading liberal arts university with campuses in both Canada and the USA at TWU.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

112: What Are Healthy Ways to Confront Racism or Prejudice and Make Sure Your Ministry is a Welcoming Place?

Tue, 04 May 2021 01:16:19 -0500

We genuinely believe that to be a good youth worker you need to be a student of Christ and a student of culture, and this episode is all about the ways that Christ meets us in our current culture! Join Colin Lancelot, Holly Bishu Goetz, and Austin White as they talk about the ways your youth group can view the world through Kingdom eyes and treat every person like they are made in the image of God.

Want to check out some of the resources they suggested?

Episode 85 with Holly on the Youth Ministry Team Podcast

My Message to White Church Leaders with Judah Smith

In the intro you heard about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Excellence. It’s a ministry training program that’s designed to help you learn to do youth ministry while doing youth ministry.

If you’d like to hear more about this unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

You also heard about our On The Road Tour. With 21 stops across Canada, we’d love to see you at one! Find out more at https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

111: Are There Creative Ways To Do Ministry Even in Lockdowns? Interview with Laura Bronson

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 15:35:23 -0500

We all need extra encouragement and hope in this season, and today’s episode with Laura Bronson brought us just that! She is doing phenomenal ministry in Ontario, Canada, and what better way to be encouraged than hearing about the work God is doing through Laura with students that wouldn’t necessarily show up to church!

You can follow her on instagram @laura_bronson

Check out what Laura is doing at IKeepItReal.ca or through Youth For Christ Canada (https://yfc.ca)

In the intro you heard about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Excellence. It’s a ministry training program that’s designed to help you learn to do youth ministry while doing youth ministry.

If you’d like to hear more about this unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

You also heard about our On The Road Tour. With 21 stops across Canada, we’d love to see you at one! Find out more at https://www.youthworker.community/ontheroad

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

110: What Kinds of Questions Help Build Healthy Relationships With Every Student?

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 22:53:13 -0500

Sometimes asking students questions can feel a bit like an awkward one-sided conversation. Other times, questions lead to faith-cementing moments that students will remember for a lifetime. So… how can you move from “What’s your favourite colour?” to “How did that change how you thought about God?” Join Spencer Conway, Kara Allison, and Kiara Moshansky as they give us practical questions to connect, converse, and cultivate meaningful relationships with students that foster faith development!

Want to check out the books they recommended?

The Art of Group Talk: How to Lead Better Conversations with Teenage Guys by Jeremy Zach, Tom Shefchunas, & Brett Talley

The Art of Group Talk: How to Lead Better Conversations with Teenage Girls by Ashley Bohinc & Crystal Chiang

In the intro we talked about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Excellence. It’s a ministry training program that’s designed to help you learn to do youth ministry while doing youth ministry.

If you’d like to hear more about this unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

109: How Do You Help Gen Z Tell A Better Story?

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 23:29:11 -0500

Storytimes. Unboxings. Tutorials. All things that had very different meanings a decade ago, and have now taken over student’s lives for better or for worse.

In a world that is constantly engulfed in narratives and stories, how do you help a generation tell a better story? Join Hannah Bartlett, Deniel Sewell, and Peter Yoon as they talk about leading students to tell the best story ever told!

In the intro we talked about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Excellence. It’s a ministry training program that’s designed to help you learn to do youth ministry while doing youth ministry.

If you’d like to hear more about this unique apprenticeship based training program you should visit our website at https://www.coalitionforministry.com/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

108: What Should You Do Now to Help the Faith of Students Who Are Soon Going to Graduate?

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 23:54:01 -0500

A few years ago, the Renegotiating Faith study found that young people who had someone stay in touch with them as they transitioned from high school to university to connect them to a community of faith were FOUR TIMES MORE LIKELY to stay connected to a community of faith by the end of their first year. So it clearly matters, but what does that connection look like? Join us this week with Rolf Nanninga & Dan Sherman from Power To Change - Students as they give us some practical next steps and tell us why it matters!

You should also sign up for live or on-demand access to our upcoming webinar all about helping students carry on their faith after graduation. More tools, ideas, giveaways, and Q&A will be provided. Register today here.

One of the great ways you can support your students in this season is by connecting them to great scholarship funding. Our friends over at Power to Change – Students are offering a NEXT Steps Scholarship for those heading off to post-secondary in Ontario and the Impact Award for students going to post-secondary in Western Canada.

Looking for some more resources and tools?

The Find My Campus tool can help students get connected to a P2C group at their future school
The Mentorship Resource can be used to guide conversations with your soon-to-graduate students
SHIFT >> ENTER can be used to bring your post-secondary-bound students together
- Learn more about SHIFT >> ENTER through this video
- Check out the student facing video on Vimeo or YouTube (any feedback is greatly appreciated!)
- Invite your alumni back to share their experience and invite your local campus worker to join the conversation
The Power to Change - Students email subscription is great for incoming students, their parents and their youth leaders to stay up to date on all relevant information and opportunities (you can check out a sample of their last issue for youth leaders here)
The In Every Way online event is happening April 17th, and it will be an evening filled with stories and hope from the past year.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

107: What Are Some Best Practices When Mentoring Teenagers? Interview with Chris Tompkins

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 23:30:07 -0500

You hear people sharing stories of breakthroughs and phenomenal faith-shifting moments with their students, and you start to think about the last time you could say the same about students in your ministry. Whether you can’t remember the last time or it was just last week, there are certain practices you can engage in that will leave a lasting impact on the next generation. Join us this week with Chris Tompkins from Muskoka Woods as he gives us tips for mentoring teenagers in the ways that matter most.

Check out Chris’ Shaping Our World Podcast to hear from more amazing leaders!

Want to check out the book Chris recommended? Planet Middle School by Kevin Leman

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

106: What Does It Mean to Take God’s Name in Vain and How Does Your Answer Shape The Theology You Pass Onto Teenagers? Interview with Dr. Carmen Imes

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 23:11:45 -0500

We all have faith questions, and none of us have all the answers. But when students are asking deep questions, the way that you respond matters deeply.

For example, do the 10 commandments really matter anymore? Can’t you just ask for forgiveness after sinning and be free and clear? Isn’t God kind of angry in the Old Testament? Does the Bible really matter?

Join us this week with Dr. Carmen Imes from Prairie College as she gives us theological grounding for the questions that will surely come, and reminds us of the lens through which the next generation is viewing the world.

Want to learn more from Dr. Carmen Imes? Check out her book Bearing God’s Name (https://amzn.to/2PhIYkv), and her YouTube channel with Torah Tuesdays.

Want to check out the podcasts Dr. Carmen recommended?

Food Trucks in Babylon

Outpost Theology

Learn more about Prairie College (https://prairie.edu/) in Alberta.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

105: What Are Great Spiritual Leaders Doing (especially in this season)? Interview with Dr. Rob Blackaby

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 00:17:59 -0500

Some days it seems like everything has changed -- even the way we do ministry. But has our core mission and purpose changed? There is no doubt we are living in a unique season, but are there still questions that we should always be asking ourselves? Join us this week with Dr. Rob Blackaby, President of the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and College, as he talks about the practices of great spiritual leaders and explores the questions we can be asking in the midst of every season.

Want to check out the books that Rob was talking about?

The Uncertain Leader by Andy Stanley

Canoeing the Mountains by Tod Bolsinger

Want to chat more with Rob? You can contact him through the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary website (csbs.ca) or at Rob.Blackaby@csbs.ca

To check out more content from CSBS, tune in to Episode 98 with Susan Booth and take a look at her tool for evangelism (https://csbs.ca/share-gods-story/)!

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

104: What Should You Know About Crisis, Trauma, Abuse, and Neglect (And When Is It Time to Report It)? Hosted by Jonathan Kornelsen

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 01:13:00 -0500

When a teenager discloses a traumatic part of their life it can be difficult to know how to process it and what your responsibility is as a youth worker. Listen in to today’s conversation as a police officer, social worker, counsellor, and youth pastor take time to talk through some of the most difficult parts about journeying with teenagers.

Special thanks to Jonathan Kornelsen from Central Community Church in Chilliwack, BC for hosting today’s conversation.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

103: How Do You Pass On the Practice of Prayer to Teenagers? Interview with Ben Woodman

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 01:05:27 -0500

Prayer usually falls in our lists of critical spiritual disciplines, yet it can be challenging to know how to help teenagers make it a priority. For example, what exactly are good personal prayer practices? And how should you as a youth worker really inspire your group to make those practices part of their rhythm? And are there things you should be avoiding when it comes to passing on the practice of prayer to teenagers?

Sid mentioned the Prayer Pocket app that is available here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/prayerpocket/id1483651069

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

102: Could Sabbath Be The Answer To The Hurried And Hyper Connected World of Teenagers?

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 02:40:58 -0500

Sabbath is something clearly modelled in Scripture, yet it can be a challenge to understand how to apply it in today’s world. What does it actually mean to take a Sabbath? Can you encourage teens to take a Sabbath during their week and what would that look like? Can you take baby steps towards a practice of the Sabbath? You know your students are clearly needing more rest and more opportunities to focus on their faith, so listen in to a primer on how this ancient practice could become something that you guide students towards.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

101: How Can You Help Teenagers Live Out Their Faith -- Even When They Aren’t At Your Youth Ministry?

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 05:32:38 -0500

If you follow your students on social media, you might have realized that some struggle with hypocrisy. That is, they talk and act a certain way when they are part of your ministry and then a completely different way once they walk out the door. This kind of double living can be extreme, but it can also be fairly mild. Sometimes there’s teenagers that are known for their faith while at your ministry, but you’d be hard pressed to find anyone at their school that knows they are a Christian. How do you help them bridge the divide that can exist between your youth ministry and the rest of their week?

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

100: Three Questions You Need to Be Asking Yourself This Year

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 02:36:11 -0500

Personal reflection will make you a better youth worker. That’s because personal reflection will make you healthier, and healthier youth workers honestly make better youth workers.

For that reason, take some time with today’s episode to ask yourself three challenging questions.

And if you discover that the answers are more complex than you’d like, we’d love to journey with you more personally. One of the ways you can do that is by joining one of our Coaching Cohorts. New cohorts are launching regularly, and you can find out all the info at youthworker.community/coaching

Here are the big questions...

How are you feeling...really? What lies are you believing about yourself and what truths are you needing to embrace?

Do you have a sense of what needs to adjust for you to be accomplishing what God has set before you?

Who are you doing life with and how are they impacting you?

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

099: How Can You Help Teenagers Lead Their Friends to Jesus? Interview with Greg Stier

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 01:03:43 -0500

“The youth groups that reach the most, pray the most for the lost.”

If you and I don’t equip teenagers to lead their friends to Jesus then we’ll likely continue to see the trend of adolescent disengagement from faith. The stats are startling, but after talking to someone like Greg you realize that the future doesn’t have to be grim. It can be filled with the hope of the Gospel. But it means that we have to take seriously a new strategy that actually is very old.

You can find out more of what Greg is up to over at his website https://www.dare2share.org/

He references an app that helps adults and teens alike share their faith. It’s called Life in 6 Words and can be found here: https://li6w.com/

We are hosting an interactive Zoom call to discover more tools for championing evangelism in your youth ministry. Registration and on-demand replay are available at https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMlcOGprzItEtxaV1sfukbK6rgxa4aNb0Xb

Learn more about today’s sponsor, Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and College, through their website (https://csbs.ca/). You can also access the evangelistic tool that Professor Susan Booth has put together by visiting https://csbs.ca/share-gods-story/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

098: How Do You Lead a Teenager to Jesus? Interview with Dr. Susan Booth

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:32:32 -0500

Crossing the line of faith. Inviting Jesus into your heart. Repent and believe. Follow Jesus. There’s lots of ways that you can describe what it means to become a disciple of Jesus, but sometimes actually talking someone through those early steps of faith can be confusing. As a youth worker, you should feel confident in leading a teenager to Jesus at any point. That’s why today’s conversation with Dr. Susan will be a helpful tool for your ministry journey.

You can access the tool that Dr. Susan Booth has put together by visiting https://csbs.ca/share-gods-story/

Learn more about the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and College through their website (https://csbs.ca/) or by emailing David at admissions@csbs.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

097: What Do You Do If Your Point Leader Transitions Out or Resigns?

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

When you are volunteering and the person that you report to leaves their position it can create lots of challenges. But the great news is that you have the opportunity to help that transition go well with a few simple steps. No matter what the reasons for their departure, this conversation will walk you through the things you can do to make sure that great ministry continues to happen.

Jason Ballard is leading these days at The Way Church, Canadian Church Leaders Podcast, and Alpha.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

096: Special Christmas Episode with Sid, Jason, and Jeremy

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:36:28 -0500

Merry Christmas from our team to you! As we mentioned, we are having a special giveaway draw for one set of AirPods (2nd generation). You can enter by sharing one of the following posts below. Draw will happen in January. Thanks for listening!

Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CJJGIopryHF/

Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/ywcommunity/photos/a.622368524483437/3463892196997708/

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

095: How Can You Create Transformational Experiences Without Going on Mission Trips? Interview with Alyssa Esparaz from Compassion Canada

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 01:41:04 -0500

With so many mission trips, service projects, and ministry opportunities on hold, how are you able to create experiences for your teenagers that allow them to understand God’s heart for justice? How can they be taken out of their comfort zone while staying in their household bubble?

Alyssa and the team at Compassion have an idea to do just that. When they launched the True Story Curriculum (https://www.compassion.ca/curriculum/truestory/) they discovered that one of the things that teenagers were drawn to was the experiential challenge that came as part of each episode. So they have released these elements as the Identify With Poverty Challenge (http://youthworker.community/compassion).

For free.

For you.

Whether you are a point leader, volunteer leader, or overseeing multiple ministries, you’ll want your teenagers to take part in the Identify With Poverty Challenge.

Alyssa works in the role of Content and Communications Specialist at Compassion Canada, telling stories that inspire and equip the Church to live compassionate lifestyles. She can be found on Instagram or her blog, which she referenced in the episode.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

094: How Do You Lead Students To Read the Bible More? (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 19:51:25 -0500

Do you find it difficult to help teenagers make Scripture a priority in their own lives? How can you inspire them to make daily Bible reading a routine? And once they are reading, how should you guide them to process what they are reading?

Access this interactive webinar to get those questions answered! Just for signing up you’ll also receive a 10 minute video curriculum that will teach you, your volunteer team, and your students how to do an inductive study of any Scripture.

On demand replay of this webinar is available for anyone that signs up.

Interested in exploring your faith more and understanding the background and inspiration of the Bible, its history and composition, the overarching themes and message?   Rocky Mountain College is offering a FREE university level course where you’ll explore all 66 books of the Bible and understand the context in and the purpose for which they were written. You will also gain an understanding of how the various types of literary forms in which the Bible was written can legitimately be interpreted so you can better understand the message of all parts of the Bible.   All of this from the comfort of your own home.   Learn more today by clicking HERE.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

093: How Do You Lead Students To Read the Bible More? (Part 1 of 2)

Sat, 31 Oct 2020 14:33:04 -0500

Not only will Sid and Jason talk through those questions, you can also view this interactive webinar to get those questions answered! Just for signing up you’ll also receive a 10 minute video curriculum that will teach you, your volunteer team, and your students how to do an inductive study of any Scripture.

On demand replay of this webinar will be available for anyone that signs up.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

092: How does the Bible Project Help People Engage with the Scriptures? Interview with Michael McDonald from the Bible Project

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 15:17:29 -0500

Michael McDonald is the Director of Global Focus and Strategic Relationships at the Bible Project. Learn more about the work that Mike and the Bible Project are up to through their website or Youtube channel.

View this webinar to get those questions answered! Just for signing up you’ll also receive a 10 minute video curriculum that will teach you, your volunteer team, and your students how to do an inductive study of any Scripture.

On demand replay of this webinar is available for anyone that signs up.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

091: How Do We Grow Meaningful Relationships with Teenagers?

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 14:16:09 -0500

The quality and effectiveness of your ministry is directly related to the quality of the relationships you have with the teenagers in your group. That’s because when you have truth and rapport with teenagers the conversations are deeper, the accountability is stronger, and their openness to you is clearer. But how do you build those kinds of relationships? It’s not necessarily a natural process, but there are certain values that can help.

How do we keep our Youth Ministry safe?

How do we model spiritual disciplines?

How do we partner with parents?

How do we help teenagers in crisis?

To access all 10 videos for use to train your youth ministry team, head to youthministryonlinesummit.com. You’ll also receive access to an extra hour of content from youth ministry experts. Access is either $50 or $100 depending on the size of your volunteer team.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

090: How Should You Teach Teenagers About Justice and Reconciliation? Interview with Lisette Fraser

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 13:25:58 -0500

You can find more about the Youth Worker Coaching Cohort here. All youth workers are welcome to join in this unique coaching experience that will help you be better, dream again, and find people that know what it’s like to be a youth worker.

Lisette has written a book about Waking Up to the Stories about Race and Reconciliation. As a long time youth worker, she’s seen how some people can feel like outsiders in the church. What are the practical ways that every youth ministry team can teach about the radical reconciliation that Christ both offers to us and then empowers us to carry into our communities?

Track with Lisette Fraser on Facebook and Instagram.

Lisette’s book Waking Up is available for free through Orange City Strategy by clicking here.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

089: How Can You Create a More Welcoming Space for Teenagers with Disabilities? Interview with Kathy Dubbeldam

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 19:51:20 -0500

Not every teenager in your community is able-bodied, which means that in order for everyone to experience a gospel-centered community there must be ministries that are welcoming for teenagers with disabilities. Perhaps your group has teenagers with physical disabilities that are easy to spot, or maybe you’ve noticed that some teenagers struggle cognitively or socially and you wonder if there’s a disability at play. Whether these teenagers are already part of your ministry or not, we know that there is space for everyone in the family of God, so what role can you play in making every teenager welcome in your ministry?

You can learn more about Kathy and the work of Young Life Capernaum through their Instagram, Facebook, or Website. You can also email them at capernaum@younglife.ca

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

088: What Do Great Youth Workers Do at the Start of Every Season?

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 17:21:44 -0500

Whether you are a returning veteran or a first year youth worker, the start to every season is a critical time to refocus on the most important behaviours. Mapping out key actions will not only give you confidence heading into the ministry season, but it will also help you be the best small group leader, mentor, or youth leader in the lives of youth. In today’s conversation, Sid Koop will unpack what great youth workers do at the start of every season: play, pray, teach, and reach.

To do a deeper dive into how you should pray with your students, check out Episode 003 of this podcast.

Check out the Youth Ministry Online Summit.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

087: What are Best Practices for Hybrid Youth Ministry that Works with Online and Physical Distancing Restrictions? Interview with Chandra Styles and Peter Yoon

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 00:42:07 -0500

Whether or not you are in a leadership position at your youth ministry you are recognizing that there are new complexities when it comes to ministering to teenagers. Everyone is adapting and trying to learn from each other so that the evangelism and discipleship of the next generation continues in every community. That’s why today’s conversation is critical. Listen in as Chandra and Peter unpack some of the ways that they are strategically leading their youth ministries into this unique fall relaunch season.

You are also invited to the Youth Ministry Online Summit for Volunteers. This event is designed for staff to attend with their volunteer teams. It will provide face-paced keynotes that will motivate your whole team for the season ahead and then in-depth breakout sessions on the essentials of volunteering in youth ministry. All content will premiere live on September 12 and also be available for on demand download on that day. Learn more about the Youth Ministry Online Summit here.

Submit your youth ministry question for a future episode at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

086: Why are Large Scale Youth Events so Helpful for the Spiritual Journey of Teenagers (And What Should You Do If Covid-19 Cancels Them All Indefinitely)? Interview with Dale Winder and Olivia Bronson

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 03:21:21 -0500

There’s no doubt that large events have made an impact on people’s spiritual lives in recent decades. Whether you talk about tens of thousands at a Billy Graham event or thousands at a regional youth conference, there are countless stories of decisions made to follow Jesus during those events. So what do we lose if we can’t access those types of events like we used to? Are there still opportunities for students to take steps in their journey? What can we do as youth workers to make space for significant spiritual decisions to still get made this year in our ministry?

Dale and Olivia mentioned a resource for following up with a teenager who has made a new decision to follow Jesus and that is available HERE.

You are invited to bring your youth ministry to Change Conference online this fall. Sadie Robertson, Lecrae, Chad Veach, and many others will inspire and empower students to live for Jesus and make a difference in the world.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

085: What’s the Experience of People of Colour in Your Youth Ministry? Interview with Holly Bishu Goetz

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 17:39:47 -0500

Join the conversation today as we hear from Holly, a point youth worker in Vancouver, BC, as she unpacks her experience as a student in youth ministry and then now as a point leader. She is thinking strategically about responding and leading in our current cultural situation and in particular around how we make sure our youth ministries are places where everyone is welcome.

You are also invited to two events that will train on the most important things pertaining to ministry this fall! One for youth ministry staff. One for youth ministry volunteers. You’ll walk away with practical strategic actions that you and your team can take to better disciple students. Learn more about the Youth Ministry Online Summit here.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

084: What Should Youth Workers Know About Video Games? Interview with Dr. Kevin Schut

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 02:55:59 -0500

You are invited to two events that will train you on the most important things pertaining to ministry this fall. One for youth ministry staff. One for youth ministry volunteers. You’ll walk away with practical strategic actions that you and your team can take to better disciple students. Learn more about the Youth Ministry Online Summit here.

The video game industry is worth more than the movie industry. It’s also worth more than the music industry. But how much do you really know about the impact that video games are having on teenagers? Is there anything redeemable there? What are the right ways to have conversations about video games with the students in your group?

You can learn more about Kevin by checking out his Game Development program at Trinity Western University or at his faculty profile.

You can buy Kevin’s book Of Games and God on Amazon.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

083: What Are The Emotional Challenges and Chemical Reactions That Make Pornography So Dangerous? Interview with Toni Dolfo-Smith

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 02:23:54 -0500

Jeremy invited you to a webinar about how to talk about porn with students. That is happening on July 23 and you can find more details HERE.

Breaking an addiction is a tremendous task and breaking a pornography addiction is no exception. To understand the unique challenges that come with this addiction it’s helpful to realize the emotional and chemical reactions that happen over time. Join in today’s episode as Toni Dolfo-Smith unpacks some of the science behind pornography use, while also providing a clear framework for helping to rewrite the cue/routine/reward habit cycle.

Learn more about Toni Dolfo-Smith and his work with Journey Canada.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Special thanks to Rocky Mountain College for partnering with us in delivering today’s conversation.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

082: How Much Education Should Your Youth Ministry Staff Have?

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 02:16:02 -0500

If you would like to book a time to chat with Marv about Youth Ministry or the Coalition, you can email him at marv@youthworker.community.

To learn more about the Coalition for Youth Ministry Excellence visit coalitionforministry.com

Today’s conversation is one that we think veteran volunteers will appreciate the most. If you’ve seen a number of transitions occur on your youth ministry staff, you might wonder how you can better support those vocational leaders so they can be more prepared for the ebbs and flows of ministry. Education comes in lots of forms, as Marv will talk about, and today you’ll discover how more of the right kind of education can help everyone in your youth ministry.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

081: What’s the Big Deal About Pornography? Interview with Brett Ullman

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 01:45:27 -0500

Sid invited you to a webinar about how to talk about porn with students. That is actually happening on July 23 and you can find more details HERE.

Today’s conversation is critical when you realize how pervasive and how destructive pornography is within your youth ministry. Teenagers' brains are being rewired, their understanding of intimacy is being hijacked, and their time is being filled by this powerful addiction. Unfortunately, the shame that porn brings often diminishes the ability to have honest conversations so that teenagers can find hope and healing. Join in today’s episode as Sid and Jeremy interview Brett Ullman on the importance of talking more about pornography as well as some of the practical ways that you can spark this conversation.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Learn more about Brett Ullman on his Youtube channel and website, especially his talk called The Porn Project.

Special thanks to Rocky Mountain College for partnering with us in delivering today’s conversation.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

080: How Do You Talk About Baptism with Teenagers?

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 01:25:19 -0500

Marking the faith of a teenager through baptism (or another practice, depending on your faith tradition) is one of the greatest joys of youth ministry. As a mentor in the life of adolescents, you can spark tangible faith discussions with those in your group by talking about baptism. In today’s episode, we’ll talk more about why this is such a valuable conversation and also what are some helpful ways to actually have the conversation.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

079: How Should You Interact With Parents or Guardians This Summer?

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 03:29:21 -0500

No matter what your youth ministry has planned this summer, a great use of your time would be building a better bridge to the parents of the teens in your small group. Thinking strategically about that connection will not only help the whole family, but it will make your ministry stronger this fall. The interactions we talk about today are accessible, doable, and highly practical for wherever you are volunteering.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Wednesdays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

078: How Can You Keep Conversations Going About Racism With Your Group? Interview with Jeremiah Niengor, James Clarence, and Ryan Harmon

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 02:35:20 -0500

As your social media feed shifts away from the conversations about racism there’s a danger that we’ll move on too fast, missing the chance to process and enact change. As a youth worker, how can you continue to have the right discussions with those in your youth ministry? What are the right questions to ask and the most helpful posture to take as you ask them?

Learn more about Jeremiah Niengor, James Clarence, and Ryan Harmon on Instagram.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Wednesdays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

077: How Can You Start Conversations About Racism With Your Group? Interview with Phil Wambua

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 01:58:50 -0500

Headlines and social media have been filled recently with the awful reality of racism in our world today. Emotions are high and there’s a sense that this could be an important turning point moment. It’s critical to remember that when it comes to justice, the Scriptures have a lot to say. Yet in some youth ministries, it can be challenging to wade into conversations about racism. Today we'll talk through a few ideas on how to start that essential conversation.

Learn more about Phil Wambua on Instagram.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Wednesdays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

076: What Should You Do If You Aren’t Praying or Reading Your Bible?

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 01:29:06 -0500

Can you take students to places spiritually that you haven’t been going yourself? How bad is it if it’s been a while since you had a quiet time? What are you missing out on if you aren’t working on spiritual disciplines? Are you disqualified from ministry if you haven’t prayed in a while? These are questions that can be difficult to bring up in your local context, but they are forming the conversation in today’s episode!

We mentioned a few resources:

Reimagining Examen (Prayer)

Exploring Christian Disciplines

Dwell (Audio Bible)

Churchome Guided Prayers

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

075: What Do You Do When You Realize That You Don’t Like Doing Ministry Online?

Tue, 26 May 2020 02:36:33 -0500

It might have been interesting at the start, but over time you’ve started to experience some digital fatigue. After all, you didn’t sign up for this type of ministry. It’s more challenging to stay engaged and you are wondering how long this is going to last. Is it bad that you are just showing up out of duty, not out of joy?

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

074: What Should You Do If You Can’t Make the Youth Program?

Tue, 12 May 2020 01:33:55 -0500

Stuff comes up that you can plan for and stuff comes up unexpectedly. But no matter what, at some point you won’t be able to honour your volunteer commitment. What should you do so that you don’t disrupt the ministry? How can you support the point leader and what do you say to your small group?

We referenced a great conversation with Vince Parker on Episode 048. You can also find Vince on Instagram.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

073: What Should You Do With a Teen Who is Immature in Your Group?

Thu, 07 May 2020 20:04:04 -0500

You know the teens in your small group have a variety of capabilities and maturity levels, but sometimes it seems like one or two are really struggling to stay engaged with the conversation. That can cause stress on the rest of the group and sometimes makes the whole group experience seem like a no win for anyone. What should you do as the leader?

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

072: How Can You Thrive Emotionally, Physically, and Spiritually as a Leader Right Now

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 01:15:12 -0500

When you are depleted emotionally, physically, and spiritually it leaks out into your ministry to teenagers. That’s why it’s critical, especially at an important time like this, to thoughtfully look at the time that you’ve been given and take as much ownership over the things in your life that influence these areas.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Be sure to subscribe to the Canadian Church Leaders Podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

071: How Can You Support Students Who Are Struggling Right Now?

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 01:27:00 -0500

Unforeseen stress is not something new to the adolescent journey, but because stress compounds, the Coronavirus reality is creating extreme challenges for vulnerable teenagers. If you can’t meet face to face with someone from your group, what are ways that you can still support them?

Join today’s conversation as Sid and Jeremy interview Dr. Marv Penner.

You can jump into the followup conversation from today’s episode in our Facebook group as we share with each other different questions that open up deeper conversations with teenagers.

Don’t forget -- you can join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic … Hosted in partnership with Alpha Canada. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

070: How Can You Have a Healthy Personal Online Presence (Now That Ministry is All Online)?

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:00:00 -0500

In lots of ways it can feel like your social platforms are something personal. After all, that’s where you have your pictures of your family, or your thoughts about politics, or what you did during spring break ten years ago. While those are all personal things, they live in one of the most public spaces imaginable. Which is why it’s important to process what it means to have a healthy online presence. Because teenagers are connecting with you online, let’s talk about best practices and ways to think strategically about your personal online presence.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

069: What Strategy is Most Important For Small Group Leaders Now?

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 22:30:00 -0500

Jason Ballard and Jeremy MacDonald discuss a simple, clear, and unbelievably critical strategy that every small group leader has capacity for. In the midst of uncertainty, don’t miss your opportunity to write a powerful story in the faith lives of the adolescents in your group.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

068: Conversation #3 On What Can You Do With Your Group In Light of COVID-19? With Guests Pat Steeves and Sarah Marriott

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 19:26:14 -0500

Join the Canadian Youth Worker Prayer Call on Fridays at 9am Pacific / 10am Mountain / 11am Central / 12pm Eastern / 1pm Atlantic … Hosted in partnership with Alpha Canada. Located at cywc.ca/prayercall

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

067: Conversation #2 On What Can You Do With Your Group In Light of COVID-19? With Jason Ballard and Peter Yoon

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 17:48:41 -0500

Learn more about Peter Yoon and the youth ministry he leads by following him on Instagram.

Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

066: Conversation #1 On What Can You Do With Your Group In Light of COVID-19? With Sid Koop, Tim Gonsalves, and Jeremy MacDonald

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:55:43 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question or drop us a line at youthministry.team.

We mentioned an Alpha link, which is located HERE.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

065: What Do You Do With a Teen Who Thinks They Are Too Mature for Your Group?

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 00:52:30 -0500

A lot of times it happens the year before a big transition. The year before high school. The year before graduation. Sometimes parents are even the ones driving the conversation. And sometimes the particular teenager in question is honestly a little more mature than the rest of the group. Should you graduate them early? How do you keep them engaged? Has someone done something wrong?

Sid, Jason, and Jeremy are back on the mic bringing you conversations around the practical questions you are asking on the front lines of youth ministry. Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

064: How Can You Help Teenagers Reach Their Friends With The Gospel?

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 01:30:20 -0500

Building a heart for evangelism in your teens is a critical goal for their spiritual journey. But to honestly inspire and equip them for action is a challenge. Ben and Tim walk through practical ideas that you can use to help teenagers see their role in what God is doing in the lives of their friends.

They’ll also share an incredible story of how God moved through a group of students in Pincher Creek, Alberta.

Jeremy mentioned the Echo prayer app, which is another useful tool.

In this week’s conversation Jeremy interviews ministry veteran and Youth Alpha Host Ben Woodman and Alpha for Youth National Director Tim Gonsalves. Learn more about the Alpha Youth Series here.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

063: What Difference Does Speaking Life and Identity Into Your Teens Make and Can You See Exponential Growth From Middle School Groups to High School Groups? Interview with Joel Feddersen

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 01:23:22 -0500

Whenever dramatic growth happens in a ministry it’s helpful to ask questions and learn about the values that might contribute to that growth. Today’s conversation will give a glimpse into such a youth ministry and you might just come away thinking more deeply about the prayers you pray and the words you speak for the teens you shepherd.

Learn more about the Youth Ministry that Joel leads here, or check out Willow Park Church where he serves.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

062: Unanswered Prayers -- How Do You Walk a Teen Through Them?

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 01:00:00 -0500

There’s that moment when you’ve been praying with a teen for a specific thing and then all of a sudden it’s clear that their prayer is not going to be unanswered. Or maybe it's answered with a resounding, “No.” That’s a major challenge for you as their leader and mentor as you hope their faith is able to withstand that kind of challenge. What should you say in those moments? How do you journey with them as they process doubt and disappointment over unanswered prayers?

Join this week’s conversation as Jeremy interviews ministry veteran and Youth Alpha Host Ben Woodman. Learn more about the Alpha Youth Series here.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

061: How Do You Create a Culture Where You Move From Volunteer to Servant Leader?

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 03:26:52 -0500

When you show up to an event, ministry, or small group, you always bring with you a culture. Since every youth ministry rises and falls on the whole team (not the point leader), it’s a critical question to ask yourself, “what kind of culture am I bringing into this space?” Join this week’s conversation as Jason interviews ministry veteran Clark Moran.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

060: What Does a Pediatrician Wish Youth Workers Would Do For Adolescents Struggling with Their Mental Health? Interview with Dr. Rob Meeder

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 01:33:05 -0500

When it comes to helping adolescents with their mental health there are biological options, psychological options, and social options. The great news is that as youth workers, the social help that we offer the teens in our care is a critical part of the holistic picture. Listen in to today’s conversation as a pediatrician talks through the role that youth workers play in helping teens find hope and healing.

You can reach Dr. Rob Meeder at his newly released podcast or through social as he has practical conversations about family and parenting alongside his cohost, Toni Nieuwhof.

To learn more about how to practically respond to adolescent mental health challenges, join us at a CYWC Regional Training near you.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

059: What Do You Do When You Don’t Know What To Do for Curriculum or Teaching in Your Youth Ministry?

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 01:24:24 -0500

If you find yourself in charge of the teaching or curriculum in your youth ministry, you definitely want to listen in on this week’s conversation. Brody unpacks the process their team went through to land on a scalable solution that allows their youth ministry team members to stay focused in each of their roles. Whether you are in a large or small ministry, discover the practical and strategic reasons for using video curriculum.

To access all the free teaching series that Brody mentions, head to www.praxisseries.ca.

A few other great resources mentioned in today’s episode are open.church, Castle Streaming, and Apologetics Canada.

Interested in equipping and encouraging your youth ministry team? Join us at a CYWC Regional Training near you.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

058: What are the Differences Between Mental Health, Mental Disorders, and Mental Distress? Interview with Dr. Kelly Dean Schwartz

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 02:55:25 -0500

With mental health at the forefront of our cultural conversation, you can get easily get overwhelmed trying to make sense of it all. How can you know what the teens in your group are talking about when they talk about their mental challenges? When is it the kind of challenges that require professional help? And where do you fit in as a youth worker? Join the conversation as this week you’ll learn from a Canadian clinical psychologist who not only has been working directly with adolescents and their families but is training school psychologists and many other mental health professionals on this important topic.

Dr. Kelly Dean Schwartz recommended the book Too Safe for Their Own Good as well as the website teenmentalhealth.org.

To learn more about how to practically respond to adolescent mental health challenges, join us at a CYWC Regional Training near you.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

057: What’s the Best Way to Understand Today’s Youth Culture? Interview with Walt Mueller

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 01:34:06 -0500

Youth culture is changing at such a rapid pace that keeping up with the times is nearly impossible for any youth worker. Yet it’s clear that having a framework for understanding how we ought to engage with our culture is more important than ever. So how do you go about understanding what teenagers are facing today without having to start a TikTok account or watch a bunch of Twitch streamers? How can you empower the youth in your ministry to become more thoughtful with how they interact with culture?

Learn more about Walt Mueller at CPYU.org.

Or subscribe to the Youth Culture Matters Podcast or Youth Culture Today Daily Podcast.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

056: How Can You Help Teenagers Navigate The Storms of Life Without Getting Pulled Under?

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 02:22:20 -0500

As a youth worker, you don’t have the power to change the weather patterns or calm the stormy ocean, but you can help teens learn how to build a boat that will carry them through the rough waters they find themselves in throughout their lives. Join the conversation as Iona Snair unpacks the conversations you can be having with the teens in your group that will lead them to resilience.

Learn more about Life Teams at lifeteams.ca and Youth For Christ at yfccanada.org.

Find the “I’m Listening” Curriculum here.

And you can register for CYWC Regional Training at cywc.ca

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

009: How Do I Teach My Students to Read the Bible?

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 04:11:26 -0500

You know that your students should be reading the Scriptures on their own, but how do you encourage them to take that step? How can you move from just telling students about the truth of Scripture to helping them discover and search out the truth for themselves? Listen in and discover a practical model that will help you teach your students to read the Bible this week.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

006: What Do You Do When Your Students Hate the Small Group Questions?

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 01:21:26 -0500

Have you had weeks where the ice breakers are falling flat and staying on topic just seems like a chore? You aren’t alone. Leading conversations with students can be extremely challenging, and although the list of suggested questions is helpful, some weeks they just aren’t cutting it. What are you supposed to do when no one wants to answer the questions? Who even writes these things? Have they been tested in real small groups before? When your students have lost interest, bringing them back to an authentic conversation about real life and real faith feels like a lost cause.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

055: What Do You Do When Your Students Don’t Want To Attend Your Program?

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 03:30:43 -0500

It can be a weird dynamic in your group when the students who are coming don’t necessarily want to be there. They don’t engage in games, lessons, small groups, or large events. Maybe these students even come from Christian homes that support your ministry, but the teens themselves just aren’t interested in it. What can you do to help those students engage?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

054: How Do You Support Christian Teens With Atheist Parents?

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 03:19:06 -0500

You likely want to build bridges to the families and parents of the teens in your group, but what do you do when the feeling isn’t reciprocated? What happens when teens have parents who are antagonistic when it comes to faith? What does it mean to honour parents when the parents don’t believe in the Scriptures that teach us that principle?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

053: What Do You Do With a Kid Who is Acting Out and Causing Chaos in Your Group? (Part Two: What Do You Do?)

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 19:00:00 -0500

If you’ve been in youth ministry for more than a couple weeks you’ve experienced a student in your ministry that causes a ruckus. Someone who derails conversation and shifts the tone of the gathering. It’s such a common occurrence that if we aren’t careful we can assume it isn’t worth dealing with. But the truth is that there’s so much at stake and we need to thoughtfully process what to do when a teen acts out in our group.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Thinking about this particular topic, you should know that Life Teams has fantastic resources to take this further. They are available HERE.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

052: What Do You Do With a Kid Who is Acting Out and Causing Chaos in Your Group? (Part One: What’s at Stake and What are the Tensions?)

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 03:20:08 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Thinking about this particular topic, you should know that Life Teams has fantastic resources to take this further. They are available HERE.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

051: How Do You Help Teenagers Pay Attention During Sermons?

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 00:46:07 -0500

You likely hope the teens in your ministry are part of a Sunday morning service, but sometimes the sermons aren’t that accessible for teens. What can you do as a volunteer to help them not only pay attention, but actually love and learn that part of their faith experience? Are there things you can do that help an intergenerational service connect more with teenagers?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

We mentioned Renegotiating Faith, a Canadian research project available HERE.

And check out Sam’Parle, one of our Québécois keynoters at CYWC Montreal.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

050: What Does Ministry Look Like in a Very Secular Culture?

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 04:03:28 -0500

You’ve likely recognized that culture continues to become more secular, no matter what part of the world you live in. Yet you’ve likely not experienced the extent of secularization like what’s happening in Quebec these days. Join today’s conversation to hear about the struggles and the hope that comes from doing ministry in such a unique place.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

049: Louie Lovoy on Helping Students Take Their Next Step Spiritually

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 04:55:32 -0500

When you are leading a small group of students you can easily get overwhelmed by the journey that your students are on. Are they ever going to make progress in their faith journey? When will you get to celebrate their baptism? It can seem like one step forward and two steps back sometimes. In this week’s episode, Louie will share a brilliant idea that he’s learned from working with hundreds of small group leaders so that you can be equipped to disciple your students in their unique next steps.

Learn more about the ministry that Louie Lovoy is part of through North Point Partners or North Point Ministries.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

048: Vince Parker on Leading a Youth Ministry of 6000+ Students, Creating a Safe Place for Students to Wrestle with Their Faith, and Teaching Students to Lead Their Own Small Groups

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 03:46:03 -0500

What do you do with a small group when their leader can’t make it to the program night? Or what do you do when you want to see change in the ministry you are part of but don’t know how to convince your point leader to buy into the change? Or how do you create a great culture on your youth ministry team? Vince oversees hundreds of small group leaders and has processed these questions on a large scale and has actionable and practical ideas for you in today’s episode.

Learn more about Vince Parker through Instagram and access loads of incredible FREE resources from Life.Church at Open.Church.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

047: Mike Miller on What He’s Learned Going From Being a Veteran Youth Pastor to a Lead Pastor With Teenagers

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 00:51:52 -0500

Seeing ministry from different vantage points lets you recognize the grander narrative that God is writing in the lives of students. That’s why it’s unique when you get a chance to hear from someone who speaks to students across North America who also has been a veteran youth pastor and is now a church planter, lead pastor, and father of teenagers. Mike Miller brings passion and vision to investing into the faith of the next generation as he shares with us in this week’s episode.

Learn more about Mike Miller through his website and Nova Church.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

046: Chandra Styles on What Questions Should You Ask Students?

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 02:12:27 -0500

Asking the wrong questions can actually shut down conversation and make students feel unsafe sharing in your group. But it can be challenging to know when the truth needs to be made clear versus when discussion should occur. And realistically, if you are going to be able to adapt to the specific situations in your students’ lives, how do you move beyond the questions on your small group leader question sheet? Today’s episode will give you specific and creative questions that will help you in the discipleship journey with your students.

Learn more about Chandra Styles and her ministry at https://forestgrovecc.com/

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

045: Kim Moran on How Do You Serve God When Your Life Isn’t Perfect and How Can You Support a Student When They are Going Through a Hard Time?

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 01:01:29 -0500

Life can sometimes take a wild turn and throw you on a road you weren’t expecting. Kim has experienced that in profound ways, and through it all is able to direct people to see the message of Jesus as one of hope and life change. When you find yourself wrestling with your own experience or working through a difficult season for a student, today’s episode will help you process the journey.

Hear from Kim live at CYWC Regional Training this year in Kelowna and Vancouver.

Learn more about Kim Moran by checking out her Instagram, Church, and Podcast.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

044: Brett Ullman on How Do We Build More Bridges with Parents?

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 23:46:08 -0500

If you want to make a long lasting impact on the spiritual life of a teenager, when possible (we know sometimes it's not), you definitely want to build more bridges with their parents or guardians. When parents see you partnering with them you’ll be better positioned to not only disciple the student but also help parents as they care for their kids. What are some ways you can do that? Brett unpacks ideas in this week’s episode of the Youth Ministry Team Podcast.

Learn more about Brett Ullman by checking out his website and Youtube channel.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

043: Ron Friesen on What Do Great Youth Workers Do to Pass Along Faith to the Next Generation?

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 01:24:40 -0500

When you’ve been serving students in youth ministry for four decades you gather some stories and wisdom along the way. That’s what’s fun about hearing from Ron Friesen, who is still optimistic and excited about the role youth workers play in the faith development of students even as he’s watched multiple generations grow up through the ministries he’s led. In today’s episode, Ron brings practical ideas on how you can help students build a faith of their own in your role as a youth worker.

Ron serves on staff at both Columbia Bible College and Northview Community Church.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

042: Randy Carter on How Do You Love the Unlovable Teen In Your Group?

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 03:09:17 -0500

You can get in touch with Randy at straighttalkministries.com or randycarter.org. He is a speaker, consultant, and mentor to youth pastors.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

041: How Do You Support Students Who Move Away?

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 01:00:06 -0500

Your social feeds are likely filled with back to school pictures as a new routine starts for students. But what do you do with all those teens that have moved away? As you watch them struggle to find new friends and new rhythms is there any way to support them from afar?

In this episode, Jeremy interviews AJ Crocker from Briercrest College and Seminary. They highlight a lot of resources that can help you support students who have moved away:

Waybase

The Problem of God by Mark Clark

Village Church Podcast

This Cultural Moment Podcast

The Bible Project Podcast

The Secular Age by Charles Taylor

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

040: How Do You Support Your Students Who Are Returning From Working at Camp?

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 02:58:53 -0500

There are lots of mixed emotions when back to school season hits, but perhaps one of the surprising struggles is when students have a hard time returning from summer camp. If you have students who have had significant experiences this past summer, how can you help them reintegrate into their school year routine? Are there any best practices to help them process all that God did through them during the summer?

To learn more about the impact of camp check out renegotiatingfaith.com

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

039: How Do You Balance Your Life With Volunteering in Ministry?

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 01:19:10 -0500

How do you balance your work time, family time, time with God, and your ministry to students? When we raise the bar on our ministry to students it is easy to see how we could spend more and more time volunteering. But how do you know if it’s too much? How do you set up healthy boundaries around your time?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

038: How Do You Launch This Fall With Momentum?

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 00:58:16 -0500

You know it can feel daunting to look ahead at the next ministry year’s calendar and wonder what you’re going to do. You hope that this year will be the best yet, but there are so many things to juggle, and if you aren’t careful, the fall will be crashing in around you.

You got this though -- you and your youth ministry team can launch this year’s ministry season in a great way.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

037: How Do You Connect With Students Who Are Shy?

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 01:47:15 -0500

Whether it’s your regular program, special event, summer camp, or some other gathering -- you have probably found it difficult to engage and interact with students who are shy. Maybe they are new to your environment or maybe they are just nervous and timid around groups of people, but whatever the reason, it’s difficult to make a connection and have a meaningful conversation with them. Since not everyone is extroverted, you are guaranteed to have students like this at some point in your group, so what are some best practices when it comes to connecting with shy students?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

036: How Can You Connect With Your Students Through the Summer?

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 01:27:56 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

035: How Do You Encourage Your Student Who Recently Became a Christian?

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 01:45:25 -0500

Summer camp is a key time for students to make major spiritual decisions. One of your students (or maybe one of their friends?) might come back from camp having made a decision to follow Jesus. When you discover that, what should your response be as a small group leader? Is there a way to reinforce that decision and help them take their next steps?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

034: What Do You Do When You Don't Like One of Your Students? (Part Two)

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 00:53:40 -0500

You have that regular student who shows up to every event and every youth night, but you sometimes wish they wouldn’t. The issue isn’t that they are a regular attender, the issue is that this student is very abrasive and continually gets on everyone's nerves--including all the leaders! You know that you are supposed to respond in a loving way, and yet it seems like this student is derailing the culture of the group and making it less of a warm environment. What are you supposed to do?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

033: What Do You Do When You Don't Like One of Your Students? (Part One)

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 01:00:39 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

032: How Do You Lead a Bible Study When None of the Students Are Christians?

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 01:51:41 -0500

Heading into the summer there is so much youth ministry that happens at summer camps and with that comes unique challenges. Like what happens when your cabin is full of only unchurched students? It can be a struggle to keep students’ attention on a good day, but what happens when they don’t think the Bible is even relevant for them?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

031: Geoff Stewart on Different Volunteer Roles, Helping Students Feel Valued, and The Best Question You Can Ask a Student

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 03:15:31 -0500

Building trust, communicating value, and following up with students are key responsibilities of great small group leaders, but sometimes it can be challenging to do those things well. When you gather with your group it can be chaotic and challenging to be strategic in your interactions. If students are drawn to where they are known and where people are interested in them, how can you better show students that you know them and are interested in them?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

030: Sean Brandow on Faithfulness in Ministry and What Happens When a Crisis Hits

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 02:46:02 -0500

On April 6, 2018, sixteen people were killed when a coach bus struck a transport truck in Saskatchewan. Most of those who lost their lives were players from the Humboldt Broncos, a junior hockey team. The crash made news across Canada and as the country watched an emotional vigil, Sean Brandow, the team’s chaplain and a local pastor, delivered a powerful gospel message. His faithfulness led to a national platform in the midst of tragedy where he was able to share the hope that comes from following Jesus.

You can find Sean’s message at https://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/humboldt-pastors-anguished-speech-where-was-god/

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

029: What Do You Do With Bullying Between Students? (Part 2 of 2)

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 02:32:40 -0500

What happens when someone in your small group is bullying another student in your group? You are trying to create a safe place and yet someone is struggling in your midst. We know there’s always more to the story, but what do you do when you discover the story is clear--someone is being bullied.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

028: What Do You Do With Bullying Between Students? (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 03:10:23 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

027: Kendra Golden on Spiritual Growth Outside of our Programs

Tue, 28 May 2019 03:20:48 -0500

Students these days are digital natives and global citizens. That means that if we are strategic we can combat declining attendance and busy schedules by meeting students where they are at throughout the week--online and on their phones. What are ways to engage students outside of our programs?

Kendra Golden is a Central Team Leader in Content Development at Life.Church, which reaches over 100,000 people in person each weekend across their locations.

To learn more about the resources that Kendra mentioned, head to https://www.youversion.com | http://open.church | https://www.life.church

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

026: Mark Clark on Apologetics in Youth Ministry

Tue, 21 May 2019 00:56:10 -0500

These days in our culture it seems like there’s more value placed on exploration and relativism than actual truth. Is there a way to approach faith conversations that allows us to anchor students in the truth? Can we approach their hard questions with boldness and confidence? Is it worth preparing answers to some of the big questions that students wrestle with?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

To learn more about Mark Clark head to www.pastormarkclark.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

025: Danielle Strickland on Moving Students to Action and Putting Feet to their Faith

Tue, 14 May 2019 02:27:01 -0500

Your students are wanting to take action and let their faith push them into places where injustice happens and hope is needed. But that might mean a change in our perspective and posture as leaders. How do you tackle a bigger vision for your ministry that doesn’t burn you out? How can you mobilize this generation to see God’s mission as bigger than just what happens within the walls of our youth ministries?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

To learn more about Danielle head to www.daniellestrickland.com or listen to her podcast here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

024: Carey Nieuwhof on Cynicism in Ministry and How to Regain Hope

Tue, 07 May 2019 02:51:45 -0500

When you started out you were probably optimistic about ministry and the chance to invest into students’ lives. But over time it can be challenging to hold onto that optimism. After all, there’s that kid who you poured into and now they’ve left. Or the student who hurt you after all you did for them. And so then you started anticipating getting burned, even projecting past failure on future situations. And although you might consider yourself a realist, the truth is you are becoming cynical. What do you do with that? Is it possible to regain hope?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

To learn more about Carey’s books, blogs, courses, or podcast, head to careynieuwhof.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

023: Three Things You’ll Love about the Future of This Podcast

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 01:28:47 -0500

Listen to today’s episode to find out how you can be part of this week’s giveaway!

And follow Sid, Jason, and Jeremy online to hear more what’s coming up on the podcast.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

022: Are You Coleading a Small Group? Let’s Talk Strategies to Work Better Together

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 00:29:37 -0500

Ministry is better when you work together with other volunteer leaders. However, while there are massive upsides, there’s still a challenge to working alongside of others, especially when you are coleading a small group. What are some strategies and best practices around working with a coleader? What happens when there’s disagreement or even hurt between you and your coleader?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

021: What Do You Do With the Student Who Won’t Talk?

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 02:19:15 -0500

You have that student who struggles to engage in conversation during group time. They don’t talk very often. They don’t add a lot to the discussion. They are just so quiet. What should you do? Is there a time to push them to speak up? What can you say that might make them more comfortable sharing their thoughts, opinions, or answers?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

020: Worship in Church -- How Do You Teach Students to Engage?

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 02:39:44 -0500

Have you ever felt the tension when your students attend a Sunday morning church service and they don’t understand how to engage in worship? There’s so few places in our culture where people to gather and sing together, and yet that practice is a core part of most church services. Is there a way to help students better understand worship? What can you do to make sure that they don’t miss the opportunity to connect with God in such a meaningful way?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

019: How Can You Have a Meaningful Conversation About Easter?

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 01:31:57 -0500

Easter is on all our calendars, but have you ever wondered how to talk about it with your students? You might be surprised at how few of them actually know the Easter story, let alone how many will spend time thinking about the meaning of Easter without your prompting. So why not take advantage of the opportunity you have to spark a meaningful conversation with them this year?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

018: Cliques in the Group -- How Do You Avoid Them?

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 23:00:00 -0500

You hope that your group will bond together as a community, but what happens when the bonding goes too far and the group forms cliques? What do you do so that students don’t feel excluded? How can you manage the tension between healthy connection amongst your group and cliques the deny people access to the community?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

017: How Can You Help Your Students Share Their Faith?

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 00:09:11 -0500

Your students are perfectly positioned to reach their peers with the Good News of Jesus, but the challenge is equipping and motivating them. How can you help a student understand evangelism and the steps that they can take to care for their friends spiritually? What can you do as a leader to model healthy evangelism? What would happen if we helped our students take evangelism seriously in their day to day lives?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

We mentioned a few things in this episode:

Evangelism Remixed by Dave Rahn and Terry Linhart

Engel Scale

www.alphacanada.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

016: Your Ministry’s Communicator isn’t Connecting -- What Should You Do?

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 13:00:00 -0500

Your main communicator does so much to set up the rest of your ministry. Small groups, spiritual conversations, and life transformation flows out of the teaching/preaching/talk/message. But what happens when the communicator isn’t connecting? Sometimes it’ll be a style and preference question, but sometimes it’s bigger than that. Sometimes it’s because crude humour, too much transparency, lack of preparation, or even heresy is derailing the potential of your ministry. What do you do, how do you approach the communicator, and how do you help your ministry’s communication get better?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Here are a few of our favourite places to find fantastic video curriculum for students! https://alpha.org/alpha-youth-series/ http://iconium.io/spac-youth-series http://open.church http://thinkorange.com/xp3s/ https://www.downloadyouthministry.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

015: Unwise Behaviour -- How Can I Challenge My Students When They Act in an Unwise Way?

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 03:31:34 -0500

You know that your students struggle with actions and attitudes that are sinful and wrong, but how do you address and confront those things in a way that is helpful? How can we make space for students to come and be open about their brokenness and not be shamed? How can we be confident and willing to talk about difficult things?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

014: Anxiety in Students -- What Can I Do to Help? Interview with Iona Snair

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 03:03:56 -0500

As more and more students struggle with mental health, the epidemic leaves us wrestling with how to be helpful on the front lines with students. The disruption that anxiety causes in students is challenging. How can we help build resilient students who can weather the storms of life? What should we say? What shouldn’t we say? What tangible things can we do with students to help them through their anxiety?

To learn more about the resources available through Iona and Lifeteams head to www.lifeteams.ca/resources

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

013: Answers to YOUR Questions on Transitions, Tough Questions, Unanswered Prayers, and Disagreements with the Point Leader

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 14:40:56 -0500

Your questions are the best questions. We asked you to send us questions about your youth ministry and, wow, did you respond! Here are the four questions we covered in this episode, and as always, you can submit your own for a future episode by heading to youthministry.team

What do you do as a volunteer while the ministry goes through a new youth pastor transition and how do you navigate that with the youth pastor and with the students?

How do you discuss/talk about questions when you don’t know the answer yourself?

How do I walk students through prayers that haven't been answered yet?

What do you do, as a youth ministry volunteer, when you don't agree with the youth pastor?

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

012: How Can We Get More Volunteers to Join Our Team?

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 11:00:00 -0500

Everything suffers when there’s not enough volunteers on your youth ministry team. Conversations are strained as small groups are not so small. Students fall through the cracks. Morale sinks. Creativity wanes. And everyone starts to wonder how long things can continue. But what if your team culture was so strong that people sat on waiting lists to volunteer? What if people loved serving together so much that their passion for investing in students’ lives was nearly matched by their excitement for being on such a healthy team? How could you help your team get close to that? How can you support the other volunteers you serve with?

Welcome to the Youth Ministry Team Podcast. Youth Ministries rise and fall on the team of volunteers, so this podcast is for the WHOLE team. Join the conversation as we tackle the practical questions you’re asking so you can be encouraged and equipped as you head into your role in your youth ministry this week.

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

011: Self-Injury -- How Do I Help and What Do I Need to Know? Interview with Dr. Marv Penner

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 11:41:21 -0500

When your students are hurting and experiencing sadness, anxiety, fear, or loneliness they might struggle with how best to manage their pain and it can be intimidating and overwhelming when you discover someone has chosen self-injury for their pain management. How should you respond? Who else needs to know? Why would someone who is already hurting on the inside start hurting themselves on the outside?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

To learn more about this topic you’ll find the following two books are incredibly helpful resources:

Hope and Healing for Kids Who Cut: Learning to Understand and Help Those Who Self-Injure by Marv Penner

Help! My Kids Are Hurting: A Survival Guide to Working with Students in Pain by Marv Penner

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

010: What Do I Do When I Don’t See Growth in a Student?

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 13:00:00 -0500

After spending time and energy investing into the life and faith of a student it can be incredibly discouraging when it seems like they aren’t growing anymore, or maybe they are even going backwards. What is the best response when you see that happening? How can you continue to encourage growth without being overbearing? How can you give them healthy space without giving up? What do you actually say and do when progress isn’t being made?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

009: How Do I Teach My Students to Read the Bible?

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 10:00:00 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

008: What Should I Do About Students who Stop Attending our Program?

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 12:30:00 -0500

You’ve committed to showing up consistently in the lives of students, but sometimes they don’t reciprocate. And while there are lots of reasons why one of your students might miss a couple times, when it turns into a pattern what should be our response? It can be confusing, discouraging, and frustrating to think that students may not be as committed as we’d like them to be. Should we say or do something, or just let them leave out the back door?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

007: What Do I Say if a Student Discloses That They Struggle with Porn?

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0500

When you invest consistently in the life of students it can be shocking how much they are willing to open up and share their struggles. Not only that, but the challenge becomes how best to respond when it comes to sensitive topics. The stats inform us that pornography affects nearly all of the students in our ministries, and by middle school, lots of students are already formed habits around it. At some point, a student will likely open up to you about their struggle--what are you supposed to do? How can you be helpful to students while also staying appropriate?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team and you can access more resources on today’s topic at http://truthmatters.ca/resources/purity

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

006: What Do I Do When My Students Hate the Small Group Questions?

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 12:00:00 -0500

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

005: How Should I Help Students who are Hurting (Part 1)? Interview with Dr. Marv Penner

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 11:33:31 -0500

Whether it’s a student opening up about a toxic home life, an addiction, mental health, grief and loss, or some other significant issue, the question of dealing with students who are hurting is a question of when not if. And when a student shares about their hurt it can be difficult to know what our response is supposed to look like. When we feel out of our depth, what do we do? And what are we supposed to say when a student asks if they can share something in complete confidence?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

004: How Should I Connect with Parents?

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0500

We know that students spend way more time at home than they do with us, but we wonder if that means we should be doing anything to reach out to their families. Should we spark a conversation with their parents? If we made time for that, what would we even say? The conversations at pick up or drop off can often be awkward -- are there ways to make a connection worthwhile?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

003: How Should I Pray with my Students?

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0500

It’s too easy to become an afterthought. Prayer gets pushed to the end of the night, quickly asking if anyone has prayer requests, frantically figuring out how to speed up one student’s long description of his cat’s intestinal issues or another’s great aunt’s gout. Is this what prayer is? Should we be modeling something different?

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

002: How Do You Have a Conversation with a New Student?

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0500

One of the challenges in youth ministry is the constant churn of new students. If you are creating a welcoming environment, students will want to bring their friends, which means you are constantly trying to build relationships with new students. But how do you build rapport and connection with someone who might be skeptical, nervous, and hesitant? How do you have a conversation with a new student?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

001: Does Volunteering in Youth Ministry Make a Difference?

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 09:00:00 -0500

Volunteering in Youth Ministry can be difficult and draining, especially when you are unsure if you are making a difference in the lives of your students. How do you know that your efforts aren't in vain? Does volunteering in Youth Ministry really make a difference?

We want to hear from you! Submit your youth ministry question at youthministry.team

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.

000: Introducing The Youth Ministry Team Podcast

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 02:30:21 -0500

Mentioned in this episode:

Update for 2024

Lots has changed since this episode initially aired! So to stay current with us here in 2024, head to https://www.youthworker.community/ to find out what we're up to.