Everyone's Called to Youth Ministry ... They Just Don't Know It Yet!

Adult leaders come in all shapes and sizes. I’ve had the privilege of building teams comprised of college students, married couples, divorced people, grandparents, people in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and even one wonderful woman in her 90s! That’s right ... 90s! Some of these people have every reason to not be involved in youth ministry. They’re busy with school, work several jobs, have their own families to care for, or have been put on the shelf by society. Nevertheless, they have joined our team and volunteered their time to invest in students.

Here's what I've learned: You can't count anybody out when it comes to working with students. 

Taking this a step further, Darren Sutton, in his brand new book that just came out today, says "Everyone's called to youth ministry ... they just don't know it yet." In fact, he couldn't say it louder than making that statement the title of his book.

In the book Sutton argues his point by suggesting that many people are not aware of their calling to work with students because of unspoken, unrealistic, or unclear expectations. These, he points out, are leadership issues. He identifies different personality types and how those people can get involved in youth ministry in a wide variety of ways when they are intentionally invited, trained, placed, and cared for appropriately. I love his line, "Everyone has a story to share with the next generation." The book includes lots of stories and practical tips, as well as an appendixes full of great resources. Every youth worker needs Everyone's Called to Youth Ministry ... They Just Don't Know It Yet!

Order your copy of the book here.

Darren Sutton has served in youth ministry for over 20 years. He has a passion for students and the adults who influence them. Together with his wife, Katie, he co-founded Millennial Influence and produces a weekly podcast reaching parents of teenagers. Darren and Katie have three teenagers of their own and Darren currently serves a student ministry in Texas.
If you are a youth pastor, pick up a copy for every member of your church. Just charge it to your senior pastor's account. He won't mind. lol!