Table of Contents: Spring 2006
Editorial - Richard Kauffman
Features
Relax – God is at work by Brenda Sawatzky Paetkau
Many youth workers feel pressured because they see themselves as
catalysts for God’s work among youth. Good news: God is already at work.
The task is to recognize and name the signs.
Youth ministry at the core of the congregation
by Marlene Frankenfeld and Merv Stoltzfus
Congregations that integrate youth ministry with all other ministries tend
to produce able and confident leaders among youth.
Missional players in today’s church by Abe Bergen
Mennonites once saw youth ministry as a preparation of leaders for
tomorrow’s church. Now, more see youth as active participants in the
mission of today’s church.
Youth culture
Interview with Gareth Brandt on what makes youth culture tick.
Mentoring Success by Steve Ropp
A veteran youth worker offers practical tips for effective pairing of adult
mentors with your youth.
Comfortable in their own skin by MaryLou Driedger
How one mentoring relationship took off.
Youth groups in small churches by Shana Peachey Boshart
Youth groups in small churches should capitalize on the blessings of
smallness, especially relationships and ministry opporutnities.
Leap and explore by Byron Rempel-Burkholder
Mennonite seminaries are helping high school youth discern leadership
gifts. Working closely with congregations, the LEAP and !EXPLORE
programs are cultivating candidates for leadership.
DEPARTMENTS
Editorial facing page
Pastoring God’s People – Youth need the senior pastor
by Anna Rehan
Guiding Worship – What youth look for in worship
by Hugo Saucedo
Forming Faith – Take the jitters out of teaching youth
by Heather Gallian
Tending Body Life – Helping youth grieve
by Bob Yoder
Pondering the Word – When truth and love embrace
by Ray Friesen
Leader Tips and Snapshots: Culture of involvement; More mileage from table groups; Congregation stumbles onto neighborhood youth ministry; What congregational leaders can do to cultivate young leadership; Write your own lament
Worship Resources: Easter to Pentecost 2006
Introduction and guidelines (page 25); reproducible resources
Resources for leaders