Hole-Hearted: Mental Health and Discipleship. I’ll never forget the moment a student looked me in the eye and said, “I know God loves me, but sometimes my brain won’t let me believe it.” It was honest. Brave. And it stopped me in my tracks. That conversation opened my eyes to a reality many of us […]
Better Body Language When Teaching
Understanding Neurodiversity in Youth Ministry. Neurodiversity isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a paradigm shift. In youth ministry, it means recognizing that students don’t all think, feel, learn, or relate the same way. Embracing neurodiversity isn’t about doing something extra for a few students; it’s about reimagining ministry so that every student is seen, valued, […]
The first 2 minutes of your lesson set the tone for everything that follows. Want to hook middle schoolers from the start? Try these strategies: 1. Lead with CuriosityAsk a surprising question, show a weird object, or share a “Wait—what?” fact. Curiosity pulls students in before they know they’re learning. 2. Use a StoryA short, […]
Great discussions don’t start with great answers—they start with great questions. Here’s how to craft questions that actually get middle and high schoolers talking:
The Cost of Premature Leadership: Why Empowering Without Equipping Hurts Young Leaders.In today’s emerging ministry culture, “empowerment” has become a buzzword. We love the idea of handing the mic to the next generation, inviting them onto the platform, and giving them a seat at the leadership table. And rightly so—young people are capable, creative, and called. I have written about this quite a bit.
Here’s what I’m learning: when someone feels like a co-creator in ministry, not just a helper, they show up differently. They carry ownership. They dream bigger. They risk more. They care deeper.
Understanding Non-Verbal Cues When Teaching Students in a Youth Ministry and Church Setting. Hint and Help for Youth Pastors.
ESL and Immigrant Inclusive Ministry, Ten Thoughts and Hints for Ministry and Students.
Middle schoolers are curious, energetic, and unpredictable—so your lessons should be too. Here are five quick tips to make your teaching more effective and memorable:
