Youth Ministry Read

I’m reading a great book right now entitled Contemplative Youth Ministry by Mark Yaconelli, son of youth ministry guru, Mike Yaconelli.  It is amazing!  In fact, I read about two-thirds of the book this evening which is evidence of how good it is and also evidence that I am not taking the necessary time to really engage the text which is a shame.  I am going to have to slow down and journey through it again. It is a must read for anyone that works with youth – minister or volunteer, paid or unpaid. I’d been happy to loan my copy if it will allow you to read it.

For a great review of the book (which has been out in the US for over a year), click here to read it on Jonny Baker’s blog.

I really resonate with what Yaconelli shares in this book and it affirms in many ways my philosophy of youth ministry as well as challenges me about the way I’ve been approaching and worrying about my ministry to youth.  It is very easy to be misguided by self-expectations and the expectations of the church. When you listen to these voices over being in the presence of God and loving out of that presence, well…. things get messed up. This book helps you get back to the heart of why we love teenagers and desire to share life with them.