Youth Ministry Research Articles

A History of the Fellowship of Youth in the Zambezi Evangelical Church (1983–2018)

The Fellowship of Youth (FoY) is an established name for the youth organisation in the Zambezi Evangelical Church (ZEC) in Malawi. Prior to its establishment, several missionaries attempted to organise the youth ministry in the church but with little success. The idea of having an established youth organisation in the ZEC was introduced in the early 1960s; however, not much was done until 1983, when the FoY was launched at Dombole congregation in Ntcheu. The original goal of the FoY was to enhance spiritual growth among the youth through biblical teachings and social support. Its establishment helped the ZEC to bring together the autonomous youth choirs which actively participated in evangelism and crusades. The FoY has planted new churches in urban areas and produced some leaders in the church and the community. In the early 1990s, the FoY embraced a charismatic spirituality which transformed the theological praxis and the order of worship in the church. However, the shift to the charismatic movement has led to a liturgical crisis which resulted in factions and split-offs between 2004 and 2018. For this reason, the FoY has been receiving mixed perceptions.

Revitalising Rural and Township Youth Ministry in South Africa through Digital Innovation

This article explores the potential of digital innovation in revitalising rural and township youth ministry in South Africa, acknowledging the challenges churches face in engaging their youth in the evolving digital landscape. The study advocatesfor integrating digital platforms to complement physical interactions, emphasising the need for strategies resonating with digitally connected youth. Public theology is introduced as a paradigm encouraging the intertwining of faith with societal needs. Whilerecognising the promise of digital engagement, the article addresses unique challenges in rural areas, proposing solutions such as community access points and partnerships for inclusivity. The collaborative model envisions a hybrid approach, blending physical and virtual interactions through a game-like platform. The methodology involves a comprehensive literature review and cross-sectional analysis of successful digital engagement initiatives, informing a dynamic model. In conclusion, the article arguesthat embracing digital innovation and public theology can bridge traditional and techsavvy preferences, fostering a vibrant youth community with spiritual growth and meaningful societal impact.

Australian Evangelical Perspectives on Youth Ministry: Identity, Church, Culture, and Discipleship, edited by Ruth Lukabyo

Australian Evangelical Perspectives on Youth Ministry: Identity, Church, Culture, and Discipleship, edited by Ruth Lukabyo

The Youth Inner Mission and the Soli Deo Gloria

From the 19th century, as a parallel field of foreign missionary work, the Hungarian inner mission followed Western (English, German) models and established associations to revive the stagnating religious life and to help those less fortunate in a miserable situation. The urbanisation of the period affected greatly the families moving to the capital, where some of them had become disconnected from their church roots, and the lack of a social safety net led to a high level of poverty and the moral decay that accompanied it. In the first half of my study, I looked at the beginnings of the Hungarian inner mission and then I wrote about evangelising and educating associations for youth and children, such as the Protestant Orphans’ Association, the Sunday School Association and the Christian Youth Association, which was modelled on the YMCA. In the second part, I discussed the social and faith-based activities of the specifically Hungarian Reformed Soli Deo Gloria Student Movement. Keywords: inner mission, youth ministry, Reformed Church, SDG, communism

A Weed in the Church: Early 20th Century American Historical Perspectives on Adolescence and the Rise of Modern Youth Ministry

Abstract This research pulls from a historical and theoretical lens to suggest that a misapplication of adolescent theory flowing from the moral panic of the 20th century has been realized in the exclusion of adolescence from ecclesial participation, resulting in generational disengagement with the institutional church. The path forward includes a consideration of how identity is formed within communities in an ecosystem of reciprocity that takes seriously the contribution of each generational cohort. While particular attention is given to both the historical praxis of youth ministry as well as the theological implications of youth ministry, this research is intended to invite further consideration of the subject of adolescent formation from a developmental, historical, and theological viewpoint.

Youth Ministry as a Third Ecclesial Logic?

Abstract This article presents the main findings of a three-year-long research project (2020–2023) on post-confirmation leadership training in the Church of Norway. One of the project’s key findings was that the practice of leadership training is characterized by experiences of ambiguity. Interestingly, the interactive and relational learning and development of faith within the practice are both challenged and promoted by these complex traits of ambiguity. For those who participate in leadership training, their faith and relationship with the church seem to be strengthened by the richness of the practice. Drawing on the findings from this research project and engaging other relevant research and theory on youth ministry, the article explores how experiences and patterns of ambiguity may be negotiated in a youth ministry context. With the help of pedagogical and theological theory, it further discusses dilemmas and possibilities pertaining to youth ministry`s situatedness between intentionality and institutionality, suggesting that youth ministry may operate as a sort of strategic, third ecclesial logic.

Adoptive Youth Ministry of Chap Clark. A Critical Appraisal from a Catholic Perspective

Based on the two fundamentals in Youth Ministry, namely the role of the youth in Youth Ministry as protagonists and subjects, as proposed in Christus Vivit, the apostolic exhortation on the Youth, a fresh thinking has been taking place in the Church. This study explores Youth Ministry based on the theology of Adoption propounded by Chap Clark, a Presbyterian Pastor from the United States, who has been in the field of Youth Ministry for the past 27 years. He proposes a Christian spirituality which is found in one’s belongingness to a community, which he terms as “Adoptive Youth Ministry.” The objective of Youth Ministry as adoption is for every child, every adolescent, and every young adult, to be so embraced by the community of faith that they are assured a home, a people, and a place where they can discover who they are and how they are able to contribute. It proposes a concrete step towards a process of integrating the youth in ecclesial life. A Catholic perspective on his method is an enrichment in the Church’s theology of Youth Ministry.

Re-Framing (South) African Youth Ministry

Abstract Youth ministry, as understood in an African context, is predominantly informed, and guided by a Western/European philosophy and hegemony. African youth ministry, it seems, is struggling to break away from the hegemony of the developed world, a hegemony that is not always compatible with the developing world (Africa, in this instance) and that also fails to deal with its problems. There has been renewed energy shown by the youth on the African continent, calling for a decolonial conversation, which, ideally, should also include theology and youth ministry. The #feesmustfall and #rhodesmustfall campaigns in South Africa have proven that the youth in the developing world remain a dominant voice for justice and transformation in spheres controlled by the adult community, those who are traditionally in power and who hold a philosophy that is often vastly different from the youth and the world that they inhabit. In a sense, one can argue that the actions in the calling for justice and transformation of the youth are indeed prophetic. This article will argue that the youth from emerging nations, such as those in Africa, have the agency to make a profound difference in (public) areas where there is injustice, thus offering a message of hope. This means of agency amongst the youth in the public domain is an expression of how youth ministry should not restrict itself to the clerical and ecclesial domains, but also how they ought to act in the public domain in applying public practical theology. Furthermore, this article argues, as a public practical theology, there is a need to build a theological theory, which is local and distinct from the Western/European context, to further the prophetic actions of the youth. The twofold aim of this article will be achieved through a theoretical approach with reflections on contemporary actions of, particularly, South African youth.

Inclusivity in youth ministry praxis and the challenge of mainline church attrition

Despite a century of professional development in youth ministry, the American church continues to face generational attrition. This article explores this paradox, employing practical theology to scrutinise the historical praxis and philosophies shaping 20th-century youth ministry. I have taken Nel’s work on inclusive missional ecclesiology as my basic point of departure, analysing four interconnected ‘texts’: Ecclesiological perspective, a historical review of youth ministry evolution, adolescents’ developmental locus within congregations, and a qualitative study featuring interviews with members from seven American churches involved in youth ministry. The investigation highlights the necessity for a paradigm shift in youth ministry from an exclusive programme to a more inclusive missional approach. It urges recognising adolescents as equals in congregational life, fostering an environment that not only retains but also nurtures them as indispensable community members. By adhering to this reformed vision, the church can address the persistent crisis of generational attrition effectively, encouraging the collaborative growth of the American church with the active participation of its adolescent members. It suggests a path forward that sees youth not as future church, but active contributors to the contemporary church ecosystem.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This research guides churches in considering the theological, sociological, and developmental implications of adolescent inclusion through the lens of missional ecclesiology, suggesting adolescent inclusion is critical to contextual missional praxis.

Establishing Faith – The Close Relationships, the Early Influences and the Aspect of Integrity and Trust

Abstract This study examines the establishment of Christian faith amongst Norwegians aged 30–40, with focus on the impact and nature of early religious influences. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research synthesizes quantitative data from 585 participants, complemented by qualitative follow-ups with 10 respondents from the initial cohort. The tripartite investigation probes into the dynamics of Christian faith formation in this demographic. It particularly scrutinizes the synergy between personal relationships and engagement in Christian practices. The findings suggest a composite of activities that collectively underscore their significance. While youth ministry and parental influence during adolescence play notable roles, the qualities embodied in personal relationships – characterized by warmth, trustworthiness, and integrity – may be more crucial than the structural aspects of the relationships themselves. These insights contest conventional views of predominant influences on faith formation and religious acculturation, underscoring the salience of authentic interpersonal connections in navigating one’s spiritual trajectory.

Enhancing youth involvement in community development: A pragmatic strategy for local churche

This article reports on the findings of the Christian youth ministry involvement in community development in the Mayibuye community of Tembisa, in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The article employed Richard Osmer’s model of the four tasks of practical theological interpretation. These tasks have been used to understand better what is happening in youth ministry and community development contexts in the Mayibuye community by utilising documentary analysis and in-depth semi-structured interviews. The findings divulged that the Mayibuye community faces several socio-economic challenges. Most importantly, young people are the most affected. Furthermore, the findings exposed that youth involvement is limited in community development processes within local communities. As a result, the article proposes implementing a pragmatic strategy to enhance the youth ministry’s involvement in community development. Various principles of the youth ministry have been presented in the study as the essential principles that need youth leaders’ attention for functional youth ministry, and to achieve developmental outcomes. The study also recommended further empirical studies on youth culture, the importance of young people’s inclusion in leadership roles and the use of young people as catalysts for community transformation.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The anticipated outcomes of this research endeavour are poised to make a valuable contribution to the current corpus of knowledge in various academic domains, including Practical Theology, Youth Ministry, Theology and Development, Community Development, Congregational Studies, Missiology, Anthropology, and Sociology. This contribution suggests that adopting a pragmatic strategy is likely to yield positive outcomes for local churches, youth ministry, and community development as a whole.

Youth – Agents of Change? German Views on a Possible Paradigm Shift

Abstract Young people are traditionally seen as the future of church and society, as “agents of change.”1 In Europe one might be reminded of the fundamental change during the late 1960s, when mainly students formed demonstrations induced by the Vietnam war and the downsides of the bourgeois structures of society during the post ww ii-period. These experiences formed an image of youth that grounded research in sociology, psychology, and pedagogy for a long period of time and still seem to influence actual thinking and talking about youth. But is this view still appropriate? Are young people of today still “agents of change”? In the following, this image shall be contrasted with recent findings from Germany which indicate a change, a possible paradigm shift, regarding political interest, relations between generations and finally the role of youth ministry as a possible companion for young people in the middle of a changing society – and even the entire world – facing fundamental tasks.

‘Give the Grant Money to the Youth’: From Youth Departure to Belonging in the Ethnic Church

Abstract This paper uses sociological theories of religious change to explain findings from action research on intergenerational relations at two ethnic churches in the U.S. At the outset of our study, immigrant adults felt threatened that younger congregants preferred non-ethnic churches. When these churches used research funds to support youth development and outreach programs, they experienced intergenerational congregational belonging. We ask, do existing sociological theories sufficiently explain how these ethnic churches responded to the ecclesial problem of youth departure? Can we use action research to advance theories of how youth practice belonging within ethnic churches? We show how action research produced anomalous cases of intergenerational partnership that begs the integration of market-based and neo-institutional theories of religious change. We argue that future action research targeting youth ministries and civic activism in ethnic churches can explain how American religion is changing through the immigrant youth demographic.

Essence of religion, culture and indigenous language in a unified sexuality education system

Sexuality education is fundamental in higher and tertiary education institutions (HTEIs). Evidence suggests that its effective education is through translations into the first language of learners. However, in global and multilingual cultural communities such as HTEIs, the foundations for these translations are still a researchable area. Notably, in HTEIs adolescents, young adults and adults co-exist and therefore, any translations must be toned to balance across these groups. The aim of this study was to establish strategies that could enable sexuality educators to effectively transfer information that is steeped in indigenous language, religious and cultural meaning without precipitating stigma and taboo issues. The study setting was the National University of Science and Technology where a cross section of indigenous cultures, languages and religions co-existed with other global cultures. A University Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR) methodology was administered by the researchers using a Delphi research approach to students and staff. Multilingual, multilayered, multireligious, and multicultural nature of the setting presented serious challenges that compromised the prevention of stigma and taboo issues when dealing with sexuality education. We recommend that the strategy to present sexuality education in indigenous languages to the generality of HTEIs population should, in the first instance, involve systematic identification of appropriate interventions that are religious, cultural, and language-specific.Contribution: This research reveals paramount ethical and religious violations that have a potential to precipitate opportunistic sexual relationships that may lead to impediments in capacity building for learners. This research can be utilised by academics on the field of Practical Theology, specifically youth ministry and pastoral care.

The Need for Training Resources for Volunteer Youth Leaders on Teaching Preparation and Delivery

In recent decades, pragmatic youth ministry has produced resources on engaging programs, relational equity, practical organization, or family ministry. While all of these are helpful and necessary, they have left a gap in teaching formation resources for volunteer youth leaders. This article surveys the trends in recent literature, reviews current resources, and seeks to show the importance of teaching resources for youth volunteers that address both preparation for teaching and flexibility and adaptability when teaching.

Talasínup: Exploring the Environmental Consciousness and Christian Environmentalism of Youth Ministers in Mabalacat City in Light of Laudato Si' for Post-COVID-19 Environmental Stewardship

This research investigates the influence of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si on the attitudes and behaviors of Catholics regarding environmental stewardship in a post-COVID-19 context. The study employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to comprehensively understand the impact of the encyclical and identify potential areas for future action and research in this critical field. The primary data collection involved a survey administered to 144 Catholic Youth Ministers in Mabalacat City, Pampanga. The survey included the Environmental Consciousness Scale and Christian Environmental Scale. Preliminary results indicate that Laudato Si has had a significant impact on Catholic perspectives and behaviors related to climate change and sustainability. The analysis of open-ended responses in the study provided valuable insights into the concerns and aspirations of the youth ministers. While personal aspects of life were the primary concerns for the youth, the youth ministers expressed deep concern about local pollution and the urban expansion on natural landscapes. They emphasized the importance of taking practical action to address these environmental issues and recognized the role of individual behaviors and societal structures in tackling these challenges. This research highlights the influential role of the Catholic Church in promoting environmental stewardship and the transformative power of religious teachings in elevating climate change concerns. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the influence of religious teachings on environmental attitudes and behaviors among Catholics. Furthermore, the insights generated in this study can inform policymakers, educators, and organizations seeking to promote environmental awareness and action among Catholic youth.

The Five Questions: An Academic Handbook in Youth Ministry, written by Jos de Kock and Bård Norheim

The Five Questions: An Academic Handbook in Youth Ministry, written by Jos de Kock and Bård Norheim

Lost in translation? Religious elements and concepts in youth climate movements

Climate change represents the most significant challenge facing the global community. The issue in question has an impact on the younger generation, whose prospects may be jeopardised. Both younger and older generations are participating in climate movements. An illustrious instance is the School Strike for Climate, which was orchestrated by the adolescent environmentalist, Greta Thunberg. The climate movements exhibit a range of objectives, actions and focus. Various social movements construct narratives that appeal to the youth demographic. The presence of a coherent narrative aids in the formation of personal identity and the establishment of a shared sense of self among individuals. Collectively, they have the potential to advocate for equitable treatment of the environment. Climate activism, although not regarded as religious, employs religious language and concepts. Research examining the climate movements’ impact on churches has revealed the presence of religious effects. Upon conducting research on the involvement of young individuals in churches and climate movements, specifically with regard to their agency, it has been observed that climate movements are fundamentally grounded in religious language and ideals. This article analyses the religious concepts found within youth climate movements and further investigates the correlation between youth climate activism and religion through the analysis of religious rhetoric.Interdisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary nature of this contribution is spread across the fields of theology and religion. The sub-disciplines of the youth in general, youth ministry and youth work, religious rhetoric, climate change, climate justice and environmental consciousness within the academic discourse of sustainability are studied.

The Response of The Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Management of Youth Drop-Out Rate in Nyamira County, Kenya

This study examines the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church's response to the management of youth dropout rates in Nyamira County, Kenya. Youth disengagement from the educational system has profound implications for their social and academic outcomes. Recognizing the significance of addressing this issue, the SDA Church, as a central institution in the community, plays a vital role in providing effective solutions. Using a critical youth development lens, the study investigates how an understanding of systemic injustices and the larger societal context affects the church's strategies. To identify evidence-based practices that have been successful in reducing dropout rates and promoting positive outcomes for young people, the study employs various qualitative research methods. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with families, community organizations, and educational institutions to develop a comprehensive approach. To further validate its findings, the study incorporates critical youth development theory. The main topics addressed in this study include youth calendar events and scheduled activities, youth engagement outside the SDA church on Sundays, spiritual parental responsibilities, the impact of technology, the influence of church leaders, the youth's sense of belonging, the effectiveness of youth ministry, and the connection of young people to small groups. The study also discusses involving young people in volunteer work, promoting individual spiritual practices, and providing guidance to their parents.

Is Poland Still the Bulwark of Christendom?

Abstract This article provides a comprehensive examination of the current state of research in Polish practical theology, focusing on the significant pastoral challenges confronted by the Catholic Church in Poland today. Comprising two parts, the study begins with a descriptive analysis of the institutional framework of Polish theology. It highlights the contemporary landscape of Polish ecclesiastical universities and theological faculties, addressing concerns regarding didactics and the declining enrollment of theology students. Additionally, the article explores the recent evaluation principles employed by the Ministry of Education and Science for assessing Polish theological faculties. The second part of the article presents a research-based investigation into the primary pastoral problems in Poland, drawing on selected literature sources. These issues encompass: (1) the decreasing number of dominicantes and communicantes, (2) the Church’s engagement in the digital realm, (3) challenges associated with youth ministry, (4) the decline in student participation in religious education classes, (5) the absence of adult catechesis, and (6) the complexities surrounding the use of religious language. In response to the titular inquiry regarding Poland’s status as a bastion of Christendom, the study offers a cautiously affirmative response, considering certain reservations. Research findings demonstrate that the profile of Polish Catholics has undergone an inevitable evolution towards secularization in recent years, with Polish pastoral care not always keeping pace with this shifting mentality.