The FYI on Youth Ministry

When it comes to mission trips, lasting discipleship happens when leaders intentionally teach students to reflect and prayerfully integrate what they're learning. But we know that's not always easy. Tune in as Rachel Dodd talks with experts Andrea Kroeze, Dario Lariosa, and Keegan Lenker, who share insights and tips on planning faith formation practices that disciple teens as they serve. About this Season: This season explores mission trips, serving local communities, and why these remain a valuable part of youth ministry. But planning them well takes more than good intentions. This season is brought to you by FYI's On-The-Go youth leader resources Faith & Mission Collection (Discussion Guides, Prayer Activities, Youth Leader Guides), and created through support from Tenx10. Mentioned in today's episode: Youth Leader Guide on Intergenerational Mission Projects Faith & Mission curriculum: Discussion Guides, Prayer Activities, & Youth Leader Guides) Touch The World mission trip resources: Devotionals and Re-Entry Journal The Missions Academy: Online and downloadable pre-trip training curriculum and training

Local service can help teens become aware of needs in their own community and ways they can help. FYI's managing editor, Rachel Dodd, sits down with youth ministry pros Erik Cave, William Leung, and Abigail Olds to discuss tips and ideas for youth groups serving their community close to home. About this Season: This season explores mission trips, serving local communities, and why these remain a valuable part of youth ministry. But planning them well takes more than good intentions. This season is brought to you by FYI's On-The-Go youth leader resources Faith & Mission Collection (Discussion Guides, Prayer Activities, Youth Leader Guides), and created through support from Tenx10. Mentioned in today's episode: Get the free Youth Leader Guide on Intergenerational Mission Projects Faith & Mission curriculum: Discussion Guides, Prayer Activities, & Youth Leader Guides Tenx10: "Make Faith Matter More to 10 million young people over the next 10 years in the spirit of John 10:10." Bible Project video on Justice 00:00 - Introductions 03:45 - Why serve locally? 10:44 - Journey to Mosaic - learning about justice locally 15:23 - A free youth leader guide on intergenerational mission projects 15:48 - What is the long-term impact? 21:03 - Starting local service with your youth ministry

In the acclimating transition, young adults learn to navigate the new environments, jobs, and communities that come with growing independence. Our young adult guests share how they balance the need for stability with the reality of constant change, and how moving can feel both exciting and unsettling. We also discuss the importance of building support systems and finding community during these transitions, offering practical advice for young adults and those who support them on their journey. Hosts: Roslyn Hernández, Steve Argue Sign up for our email list Related FYI resources: Guide: 7 things you need to know for successful young adult ministry

Let's explore how young adults navigate their contributions to society, relationships, and faith. Listen in to hear about changing plans, the pressure of expectations, balancing aspirations with reality, finding meaning in work, and the importance of support systems during the contributing transition. Sign up for our email list Related FYI resources: Guide: 7 things you need to know for successful young adult ministry

This episode unpacks young adults' work of navigating the complexities of trust, connection, and boundaries in their relationships. We'll also explore how youth leaders and mentors can provide guidance during this transition, helping young adults build meaningful, healthy relationships. Sign up for our email list Related FYI resources: How to be heard: A young adult's guide to church leadership

The tenth season of The FYI on Youth Ministry is all about young adults! In this episode, we introduce you to the 7 transitions young adults experience in their twenties. Whether you're a youth leader in your twenties, or you have students about to become young adults, this season is for you! Sign up for our email list Free Resource: 7 things you need to know for successful young adult ministry Related FYI resources: Blog: Two mantras for young adult ministry now

Join us as Eric Vasquez, the visionary founder of Just Us 4 Youth, delves into how to build trust with teenagers. Eric underscores the role of consistency and closeness, and imparts practical strategies for nurturing connection—from active listening, to the power of meaningful one-on-one interactions, to engaging parents. Eric shares actionable advice for cultivating genuine relationships with young people. Mentioned in this episode: Faith Beyond Youth Group Just us 4 Youth T.R.E.E. program for parents Sign up for our email list Related FYI resources: Blog: Cultivating teenagers' trust one small act at a time Blog: 5 ways to cultivate trust with teens in your youth ministry

Are you questioning your teaching and discipleship strategies? Let's explore ways to infuse Christian youth ministry teaching with transformative power that inspires teens to genuinely trust in God (not just follow rules). This rich conversation with, pastor and author Meredith Miller is full of wisdom, experience, laughter, and actionable insights to inspire your youth group lessons—and your students. Mentioned in this episode: Faith Beyond Youth Group Meredith's Book: Woven Pedagogy of the Oppressed Sign up for our email list Related FYI resources: Blog: How to adapt youth ministry curriculum for your youth group Blog: The volunteer's guide to cultivating faith beyond youth group