One thing that I distinctly remember from my own time in youth group were the mission trips. My first trip was to Mexico. Actually, I'm fairly sure my first three mission trips were all in Mexico. We helped lead Bible studies with kids, helped spruce up some churches, and built houses. I've also served in … Continue reading Why do a Local Mission Trip for Your Youth Group?
Steve’s Blog
Ministry Expectations with Austin Williams (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 39)
On episode 39 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I talk to Austin Williams about expectations in student ministry, for the student pastor, the leaders, and the students. Austin is currently the high school pastor at his church in Villa Rica, Georgia. Not only is he a part of a thriving student ministry, he also has … Continue reading Ministry Expectations with Austin Williams (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 39)
Why Partner with Other Ministries in Your Church and Community?
Near the end of high school, my home church began a kids' basketball program at our church called Upward. I immediately got involved as an assistant coach for a team of young children. It was a great way to connect and give back in one of my hobbies -- sports. If you're unfamiliar with Upward … Continue reading Why Partner with Other Ministries in Your Church and Community?
Youth Pastor Compensation with Dan Navarra (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 38)
On episode 38 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I interview Dan Navarra. Not only does Dan lead the High School Ministry at Monte Vista Chapel in Turlock, CA, but he is also the co-founder of the Youth Pastor Compensation Survey. In fact, he has recently started a new website called The YP Comp Pros, which … Continue reading Youth Pastor Compensation with Dan Navarra (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 38)
Why Should Your Senior Leader Attend ReThink Leadership?
Many of you are probably familiar with the Orange Conference, but how many have heard of its counterpart, ReThink Leadership? One of the aspects about the Orange mindset that I have always loved was their emphasis on the entire church. If done well, your family ministry shouldn't just be a combined effort of the kids … Continue reading Why Should Your Senior Leader Attend ReThink Leadership?
Kids Ministry Real Talk with Zach Yaciw (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 37)
On episode 37 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I interview the host of the Kids Ministry Real Talk podcast, Zach Yaciw. Zach is also on the kids and family ministry staff at Village Church in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. Listen in as they talk about partnership between kids and student ministry, multi-campus kids ministry, and … Continue reading Kids Ministry Real Talk with Zach Yaciw (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 37)
Let them Lead
This past weekend, at our middle school winter camp, I was able to witness something that I have long believed in but don't write about much. A few years ago, I began exploring the idea of having our older high school students co-lead middle school small groups. This was definitely not an original idea, and … Continue reading Let them Lead
Longevity in Ministry with Tim Uhls (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 36)
On episode 36 of The Student Ministry Podcast, I interview my own youth minister, Tim Uhls, who is now serving as the children's minister at First Christian Church in West Frankfort, IL. Tim has served in ministry at the same church for 30 years. For many years, Tim provided oversight to both children's and youth … Continue reading Longevity in Ministry with Tim Uhls (The Student Ministry Podcast – Episode 36)
Happy 10th Anniversary, Yvette!
How do you honor someone that has changed your life for the better in more ways than you can count? No, seriously, I’m really asking. Because this is exactly what my wife has done for me over the past 10 years! On this day, 10 years ago, we stood in front of our family and … Continue reading Happy 10th Anniversary, Yvette!
Thank You, Orange, for the Connections and Networking Opportunities!
We've all experienced it. Some of us were prepared for it, while it has hit some when we were least expecting it. It's all too real, though, even though we don't want it to be. Many of us heard it was a thing, but if you're like me, you tried to ignore it, hoping it … Continue reading Thank You, Orange, for the Connections and Networking Opportunities!
