Danette Matty

Volunteer, sponsor, leader, humble slave to the youth ministry pastor—whatever you call your lay leaders (or whatever you're called, if you happen to be a lay leader)—it means the same thing: no pay.

Crosswalk.com recently ran a news blurb about new research that seemed to indicate teens weren't getting much of value from their time at church. The gist of this analysis was that most teenagers don't gain an understanding of "biblical values"; and those who do, don't apply that understanding to their...

"Hey, howzit goin'?" "How are ya doing?" "What's goin' on, man?" Am I the only one who gets annoyed by these generic, un-heartfelt inquiries? It's tried and true; superficial questions get superficial answers. Somehow I can't hear Jesus casually asking the disciples or Pharisees, "How's everybody doin'...

We all know friends, pets and even houseplants need care, but what about volunteers? Here, a veteran youth ministry worker provides a short list of ways you can express your care for your volunteers. Commandment #1: Challenge me spiritually, not only as a leader.