The Value of Pastoral Renewal Leave
Rev. Matthew Smith recently returned from a renewal leave. He explains that it is more than a vacation; it is a time to deepen one's relationship with God.
Posted: January 19 2021 at 12:07 PM
In the fall of 2020, the NIC Discipleship Taskforce introduced the first pair of videos for a six month series about growing and strengthening discipleship ministries with a particular focus on youth. We’re half-way through our series, and begin 2021 with this piece of encouragement: Don’t Fear the Questions.
The work of nurturing and soul-tending young people can seem intimidating, mainly because our young disciples have questions—LOTS of questions—and many adults fear the reality, “what if I don’t know the answer?”
Every disciple on the Christian journey has questions, regardless of age or church-life experience. Questions strengthen us, both teacher and student, as well as strengthen bonds. We are not alone on this journey of faith, and shouldn’t be afraid to ask, engage, or struggle with the questions life and faith present before us.
Our theme video is presented by Daniel Lee, youth minister at Gary Memorial United Methodist Church in Wheaton. Be sure to check it out by clicking here, then continue with Deacon Sharon’s resource video!
RESOURCES
- OMG: a youth ministry handbook edited by Kenda Creasy Dean
- Unpacking Scripture in Youth Ministry by Andrew Root
- Bad Stuff in the News: a guide to handling the headlines by Rabbi Marc Gellman & Monsignor Thomas Hartman
- Peer Ministry Leadership: “What Side Would Jesus Be On?”
- BONUS RESOURCE: Beyond the Stoplight: Creating Equitable and Caring Classrooms for Children