In episode 24 of The Student Ministry Podcast, Steve interviews David Wood, the Jr. High Director at Shelter Cove Community Church in Modesto, California. From a teenager, David knew God wanted to use him, but it wasn't always a clear path to where God has him today. Along the way, he served in the military and also … Continue reading Trust and Student Ministry Magic with David Wood (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 24)
New Year’s Resolutions for 2018
Happy New Year! Can you believe it's 2018? When I was little, I found it hard to believe we'd ever be out of the 1900s. Now, here we are 18 years into this new millennium. While 2017 was not as difficult as some past years, it was definitely filled with some big things, specifically big … Continue reading New Year’s Resolutions for 2018
Let’s Take Christmas to the World!
This year, I keep getting reminded that not everyone thinks of Christmas in a positive light. In fact, many people get depressed around the holiday season. The amount of people who commit suicide even goes up before, during, and right after Christmas. If this is you, I just want to offer a sincere and heartfelt … Continue reading Let’s Take Christmas to the World!
There’s Something for Everyone at The Orange Conference
Over the years, I've realized more and more than family ministry cannot be ministry in a silo. In fact, by its very nature, it requires the church to think beyond our individual ministries in order to reach the entire family. The Orange Conference is also that kind of an event, designed for everyone on your … Continue reading There’s Something for Everyone at The Orange Conference
Connecting New Students with Derry Prenkert (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 23)
In episode 23 of The Student Ministry Podcast, Steve interviews Derry Prenkert, the student ministries pastor at Nappanee Missionary Church in Nappanee, Indiana, where he has served for over 21 years. Derry has learned a lot over the years, especially in connecting with new students. His humble heart is one we can all learn from, … Continue reading Connecting New Students with Derry Prenkert (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 23)
The Power of Presence
People are hurting. Yes, that's exactly how I'm starting this blog post, because it's a sad truth. Everywhere I look, I see students, parents, and other individuals suffering through times of crisis. Whether it be clinical depression or mourning the loss of a loved one or not getting into the school, club, or career they … Continue reading The Power of Presence
The Student Ministry Podcast – Volunteering in Student Ministry with Dann Voelz (Episode 22)
In episode 22 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I interview one of my best friends, Dann Voelz, a long-time volunteer in student ministry. Not only has Dann volunteered many years within my past ministries, but he has also served in other ministries over the last several years. Currently, he is serving with high school students … Continue reading The Student Ministry Podcast – Volunteering in Student Ministry with Dann Voelz (Episode 22)
Three Months Into a New Ministry
A couple days ago, I officially passed the three-month mark at my new ministry. In many ways, it feels like I have been here longer, but in other ways, I still feel very new. For those who have made transitions in ministry, you probably know exactly what I am talking about. Today's blog post isn't … Continue reading Three Months Into a New Ministry
Take-Aways from DYM 100 2017
If you are unfamiliar with Download Youth Ministry, do yourself a favor and head over to their website right after you finish reading this. They have great resources for youth workers: games, curriculum, events, training, and more. One of the things started last year is a small youth ministry conference called DYM 100. I have … Continue reading Take-Aways from DYM 100 2017
The Student Ministry Podcast – Stuff You Can Use with Kenny and Elle Campbell (Episode 21)
In episode 21 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I interview Kenny and Elle Campbell. After spending many years in paid local church ministry, they now volunteer in their local church and run Stuff You Can Use, which is an amazing resource for student ministry workers. Not only do they have their own website, podcast, and Facebook … Continue reading The Student Ministry Podcast – Stuff You Can Use with Kenny and Elle Campbell (Episode 21)
