Book Review: The Volunteer Playbook by Nick Blevins

I’ve served in the student ministry world for over 20 years, and one thing I learned early on is that I cannot do it alone. And because recruiting and leading teams are an ongoing tasks within ministry, it's so important that we do them well. But for many, this does not come naturally. Thankfully, Nick … Continue reading Book Review: The Volunteer Playbook by Nick Blevins

Let’s Pray for the Next Generation of Youth Workers

This week, I headed back to college... but not to take classes. I had the privilege of speaking to two youth ministry classes at Colorado Christian University. I was asked to speak about the importance of networking within youth ministry and also share more about National Network of Youth Ministries. I had a great time … Continue reading Let’s Pray for the Next Generation of Youth Workers

The Future of this Blog

Hey, everyone! I'm currently in brainstorming mode around what to do with this blog moving forward. Those of you who have followed it for a while know that this has happened every so many years, where I will begin to think about its purpose. For this post, I want to throw out a few things … Continue reading The Future of this Blog

Register Now for the Free Online 2023 Youth Pastor Conference

Each year, thousands of youth pastors, leaders, and teams gather online for a free two-day conference to learn from some of the most influential, Gospel-centered, and forward-thinking voices in the ministry world. 2 days. 20+ speakers. 100% online. 100% free. REGISTER FOR FREE Join Craig Groeschel, Stephen Chandler, Charlotte Gambill, Nathan Finochio and 20+ other … Continue reading Register Now for the Free Online 2023 Youth Pastor Conference

Answering the Call to Missions with NNYM

My wife and I would like to share some exciting news with you all! After benefiting from healthy youth worker networks and volunteering for over six years to help facilitate healthy networks, I’m answering God’s call to step into a full-time missionary role with National Network of Youth Ministries!  Before I explain more about what … Continue reading Answering the Call to Missions with NNYM

Why I Go To The Same Conference Every Year

It's almost time for the Orange Conference again! I'm headed back down to Atlanta from April 26-28, 2023, for my ninth conference. It all started in April 2010. I was 2 1/2 years into my ministry at a new church, beginning to see momentum in the ministry, married for just over a year, and excited … Continue reading Why I Go To The Same Conference Every Year

Student Ministry Connection Reaches 100 Episodes

I began serving in kids and student ministry in 1999 as a volunteer. In 2003, I was blessed with a part-time role, and I’ve been serving students, families, and other youth workers ever since. In 2015, though, I began thinking about all the conversations I’ve had over the years with my fellow youth workers, mentors, … Continue reading Student Ministry Connection Reaches 100 Episodes

3 Tips to Keep Parents Informed

Student ministry is interesting in that our ministry is not just to the teenagers. It is also to the parents. And one thing I've learned over the years is that parents really want to be informed. The more they are informed about the ministry, what is going on, and how we want to partner with … Continue reading 3 Tips to Keep Parents Informed

5 Steps to Keep Teens from Graduating from Their Faith

Graduation season is almost here! All across America, high school seniors are getting excited to finish their education and graduate. Many churches, however, are not too excited, because they fear these students will also graduate from their faith in God. And I'm sure many of you are familiar with the unfortunate statistics for those who … Continue reading 5 Steps to Keep Teens from Graduating from Their Faith

20 Church Super Bowl Party Ideas

The NFL's "big game" is right around the corner, which can be a great chance for you to host a party for your church or youth group. And while it can be really fun to get together with a bunch of Christians, events like this could be great opportunities to invite non-churched friends! But what … Continue reading 20 Church Super Bowl Party Ideas