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?
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
Equip and Empower to Create Space
A few weeks ago, I went to DYM 200 and was reminded that I am not God. (Yes, that seems incredibly obvious, but I encourage you to read my blog about that to learn more.) In an attempt to act out on that truth, I've began planning ahead handing off even more in ministry. One … Continue reading Equip and Empower to Create Space
3 Important Components of Regular Student Ministry Meetings
One of the most important parts of student ministry is equipping and empowering others. There are many ways to go about this, but one of simplest ways is through regular meetings. We have them once a month. And because I don't like long meetings and I value people's time, I keep them to one hour … Continue reading 3 Important Components of Regular Student Ministry Meetings
Reflections on the Life and Ministry of Billy Graham
Today, one of the greatest modern evangelists has passed from this life into eternity with our Heavenly Father. Only God knows how many people Billy Graham helped to know Jesus over his 99 years on Earth, and I can say with certainty that he is one of the people I'll be so glad to meet … Continue reading Reflections on the Life and Ministry of Billy Graham
Now Connecting Youth Workers Across Colorado
A couple years ago, I posted on here about a new volunteer role I was taking with the National Network of Youth Ministries. I was the co-coordinator for the state of New Hampshire. When I moved, though, it didn't make sense to continue that role since I wouldn't live there anymore. After a few conversations, … Continue reading Now Connecting Youth Workers Across Colorado
Plan to Plan Ahead
In the world of student ministry, there are many stereotypes. And several of them are negative. I don’t know if it’s just how I am wired, but one of my goals has been to break those wide open, doing my best to represent this ministry well. Near the top of that list of stereotypes is the … Continue reading Plan to Plan Ahead
Communicate Early and Communicate Often
There's a funny saying about voting: Vote early and vote often! Clearly it's a tongue-in-cheek statement, but I do think the phrase is incredibly applicable to communication, especially within student ministry. In a world with many stereotypes about youth pastor who fly by the seats of their pants and don't have a plan, you can … Continue reading Communicate Early and Communicate Often
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!
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
