Relational Ministry

A Conspiracy of Grace By Mike Yaconelli
Am I Too Shy? Relational Youth Work for Introverts By Jenny Baker

An authentic glimpse into Jenny's struggle with not fitting the hip youth minister stereotype.
An Intrusive Presence: Effecting Real Change in Young People By Bruce Becker

"We cannot expect to be able to make a real difference if we see them only once or twice a week in church."
Beyond a Thin Jesus: Developing the Art of Listening to Kids By Amy Jacober

Thinly, I share the easiest of answers. I come to a conversation already knowing exactly what I want to say, and I share a thin Jesus that may or may not have anything to say to my students. When I listen, really listen, I cannot have a pre-scripted conversation. Their questions are real and my answers have to go beyond the surface. It's amazing how much more I can say with fewer words when I truly listen!
Debunking the Myths: Common Misconceptions of the Relational Ministry Mantra By Art Rogers

Counter voice to some assumptions often chanted about youth ministry and relationship building.
From Clichés to Shiv'ah By Tiffany Marshall

Time, Protection, Professional Care, and Comfort
Is It Working Any More? Working with Today's Teens By Wayne Highland

A critical look at the youth minister-centric model of relationship building and suggestions for a different perspective.
Presence and the Hurting Teenager By Nicole Oliver Snyder

"Young people, in the midst of confusion, need a sense of safety in the silence, in the not-having-answers present."
Pros and Cons: Entering the World of Teenagers By Jason Smith

Some real reasons we don't want to leave the safety of our offices, and some compelling reasons to do it anyway.
Relational Basics: How to Develop Relationships with Kids By Doug Fields

Fields provides principles that are easy to apply. An excellent article to pass on to all of your staff and volunteers.
The Ministry of Presence By Steve Case

For the next hour you talk about anything. You talk about girls. You talk about parents. You talk about God. Mostly you just listen. That, friend, is youth ministry.
What About Contact Work? By Jon Switzer

Counting kids at your youth group meeting isn't nearly as important as counting how many you're spending time with during the week.
What Must I Do? The Youth Minister as Spiritual Guide By Michael Hryniuk

Take a deep look into how our relational efforts are really meant to be played out in the context of ministry with kids.
When Life Crashes By Scott Craddock

Walking alongside Students in Times of Pain
When Words Fail By Gary Denvil Cahill

Ministry When You Don't Know What to Say