Staff Relationships

Despite all the challenges that come with being a youth ministry rookie, the results and rewards are ultimately worth every single headache. "I have the best job in the world," said Christopher Dinnell, who just completed his first year as youth minister at Urbana United Methodist Church in Urbana, Ohio.

As a female involved in youth ministry and ministerial education for more than 20 years, I have encountered a variety of reactions and responses to the role of women in ministry. Much of the time I am viewed as a spokesperson or champion for the female sex. Interestingly enough, other females in youth...

Honestly, I never intended to betray my first love (youth ministry). The thought of defecting to the other side of church leadership was unpleasant at best. Yet here I am...

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.

Caitlyn is a seventh grader in my youth ministry. Every Sunday, you can find her at our youth worship service, eager to learn and grow in her faith. And every Wednesday, you can find her faithfully attending a different youth worship service at another church. I felt betrayed when I learned this. I began...