April 20, 2008
A Senior Minister”s View of Bible Bowl
Dale Harlow explains why Bible Bowl remains one of the strongest tools he’s found to motivate youth Bible study and Scripture memorization—and why the benefits last well beyond competition.
Articles for tag: Youth Ministry
April 20, 2008
Our Expanded Vision to Answer the Call
Andy Hansen shares how Christ In Youth hopes to amplify a unifying call for youth ministry—inviting students to live as kingdom workers, supporting local churches, and building momentum through MOVE conferences and online community.
Why Attend a Christian College?
Mark A. Taylor contrasts two freshman orientation messages—one from a Christian college and one from a state university—and points readers to a special issue showing how Christian colleges pursue spiritual growth alongside intellectual development.
February 3, 2008
Herb Bleakney”“Unpaid, Unsung Youth Ministry
A steel-mill worker and other faithful volunteers quietly discipled teenagers in a small Pennsylvania church—and the ripple effects reached Bible colleges, missions, and decades of service. A reminder that unseen youth ministry can shape generations.
January 13, 2008
Defining the Win for Junior High Small Groups
Junior high small groups don’t need instant breakthrough moments to succeed. Johnny Scott explains how to define the “win,” set realistic expectations, and create a caring environment where students can process faith with trusted adults.
January 13, 2008
A Simple Plan for Children”s and Youth Ministers Threatened by Burnout
Children’s and youth ministers often feel trapped on a nonstop treadmill of programs. Learn practical ways to prevent burnout by managing time well, building relationships, narrowing focus, and leading with a team.
Teens Matter
Teens aren’t just “the church of tomorrow.” This article challenges common myths about youth ministry and highlights three essentials that help students stay connected: belonging, believing, and competency through meaningful relationships and real opportunities to serve.
January 10, 2008
The Lost Generation
Why are millennials and the next generation drifting from church even after decades of youth-ministry investment? A pastor argues for intergenerational connection, authentic faith, and consistent opportunities to serve as keys to reaching Generation Y.
Standard Publishing Announces Recipients of Christian Education Awards
Standard Publishing named 14 students from Christian colleges in the U.S. and Canada as recipients of its 2007 award for outstanding promise in Christian education, recognizing excellence, character, and ministry potential.
April 25, 2007
In Case You”ve Missed Our Blogs
Three excerpts from Christian Standard bloggers challenge leaders to confront reality, call the church to pray for revival, and reflect on the growing urgency to lead in ways that matter now and for eternity.
January 14, 2007
Evangelism in a Postmodern World
Gary Zustiak argues that evangelism in a postmodern world must be relational and intentional, not sales-like or coercive. Using metaphors like dance, midwife, and gardener, he calls the church to invite people into community.
March 26, 2006
A Surprising End to a Skirmish in the Worship Wars
A loud youth concert meets an elderly congregation—and a surprising benediction reveals the deeper solution to worship wars. This reflection points to relationships, trust, and intergenerational encouragement as keys to a healthier church future.
March 19, 2006
The Times They Are A-Changin’
After 35+ years in local ministry, Phil LeMaster surveys how busyness, shifting church “brand” loyalty, worship changes, staffing growth, and bigger facilities have reshaped preaching—while reminding us people still need Jesus.
February 19, 2006
Set Apart to Shine
A firsthand report from the 2005 National Missionary Convention in Atlanta, where testimonies, preaching, workshops, and service projects encouraged thousands to live “set apart to shine” and consider cross-cultural mission service.
February 15, 2006
What”s So Important?
A youth-group story about taking work too seriously leads to a challenge for church leaders. Barna survey results highlight a gap between what pastors believe about members’ priorities and what members report.
September 25, 2005
What Youth Ministers Really Want
Youth ministers want more than assumptions and stereotypes. Mike Andrews explains what they hope for from congregations and senior pastors—shared discipleship, intergenerational relationships, and ministry that integrates students into the whole church.
August 21, 2005
Western Canada: Helpful Trends, Hopeful Dreams
A snapshot of Restoration Movement churches in Western Canada, highlighting urbanization, shifting identity across streams, indigenous leadership, and renewed hopes for youth work, leadership development, and strategic church planting.
How You Can Help the Preacher Shortage
With a looming shortage of young ministers, churches must intentionally encourage teens to consider God’s call. Phyllis Fox offers practical ways to support calling, partner with parents, build relationships, teach Scripture, and give teens real responsibility and service opportunities.
A Tribute to Eddie and Lois Bratton
As Eddie Bratton retires, Cathy Kissling remembers how Eddie and Lois Bratton—and a faithful church family in Kalkaska, Michigan—helped her family survive a painful season with counsel, prayer, and practical care.
May 22, 2005
Compelled to Welcome the Children
After a devastating church-van wreck and a nearby homicide, Mike Cope describes how prayer, compassion, and “grandparenting” love opened grieving hearts. A call for churches to welcome and nurture the unparented in their communities.
