Presence-Centered Youth Ministry

February 26th, 2007 — Posted in Media

pcym.png

I just finished reading Presence-Centered Youth Ministry by Mike King, president of YouthFront.
This is a very good book that thought-fully addresses the need for a paradigm shift in youth ministry (and church ministry). I believe this work is helping to redefine youth ministry… here are a few excerpts that stood out to me:

“The notion of youth workers as entertainers and program directors must give way to youth workers as authentic shepherds, spiritual guides with a holy anointing to lead youth into the presence of God.” P. 25

“The way of the kingdom is through relationships, not events. Youth workers who serve as spiritual guides for youth nurture a presence-centered youth ministry by engaging in the hard work of creating an environment of authentic community.” P.69

If you are a student out there, let us know what you think about this!!

Michael

Be the Change

February 23rd, 2007 — Posted in Stories

God’s story is great. It is rich and deep. It is also active, and He calls for us to join him in his mission to bring restoration to the world. And deep in our souls, don’t we all really hunger to be a part of something greater than ourselves—to be a part of His mission?

Zach Hunter is only 15 years old, but he is engaging in a greater story—a movement to end slavery around the world. In addition to being the spokesperson for the “Amazing Change Campaign,” Zach is the author of a book called Be the Change, written to inform and mobilize people in every country to join the fight against slavery.

Learn how you can get involved—volunteer ideas, petitions, resources and much more—at www.theamazingchange.com

Vanessa
Student Event Support at Sonlife

A symbol of God’s provision

February 16th, 2007 — Posted in God's Story, Stories

Today in our Sonlife staff meeting Chris Folmsbee—our President—led us in a time of reflection on the symbol of the Table throughout the Bible. Check out some of these verses where God uses a table as the symbol of his provision for us: Psalm 23:5, Malachi 1:6-7, I Corinthians 10:21, Psalm 78:15-20.

Our God is a loving Father who gives us all that we need. It’s easy to see all that we don’t have—the clothes we’d like, better grades, friends who are more fun, a family that we actually like. How often to I feel restless or dissatisfied, wishing I had more? Even, dare I say, thinking I deserve more?

When we come to that point, we have to pause and remember what we really deserve. Picture Christ on the cross…getting what I deserve…and I go on to live with (compared to his suffering) little discomfort. How often do we recognize how richly we have been blessed? How often do I thank him for all that he has given me?

Take a moment right now to reflect on how good God has been to you. As you go through this day, remember his provision and let it fill your heart with joy and peace. You serve a great and powerful God who is full of lovingkindness!

Vanessa
Student Event Support at Sonlife

Hot off the press! 2007 Merge brochures & posters!

February 6th, 2007 — Posted in Announcements

Come and get them! The 2007 Merge brochures and posters are here (and we like them!) If you’d like to promote Merge in your youth group and at your church, let us help. Email us at merge@sonlife.com, and tell us how many you’d like. Don’t forget to include your mailing address!