Growing Souls: Experiments in Contemplative Youth Ministry

by Mark Yaconelli

The Youth Ministry and Spirituality Project was formed in 1997 to participate in the renewal of youth ministry in the Christian church. Its mission is to foster Christian communities that are attentive to God's presence, discerning of the Spirit and who accompany young people into the way of Jesus. Our mission is founded on the biblical vision of the human person who is created in the image and likeness of God and whose deepest longing is for communion with God and others in love. In response to Christ's invitation to abide in him (John 15:4), we believe that the central purpose of youth ministry is to open the minds and hearts of young persons to an intimate relationship with God in Christ through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. We seek to fulfill our mission through retreats, workshops, training events, written materials, and relationships that promote a contemplative approach to youth discipleship. The contemplative approach to youth ministry is based on a Christian community's commitment to cultivate attentiveness to God's Presence in the lives of young people and is supported in the following seven SABBATH, PRAYER, COVENANT COMMUNITY, ACCOMPANIMENT, DISCERNMENT, HOSPITALITY, AUTHENTIC ACTION.

Genres: Young Adult, Spirituality, Faith, Religion

288 pages, Hardcover

First published May 15, 2007

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very exciting to me. This is how I would really love to do youth ministry, by working with the kids and adult leaders to pray and discern what is right. We all need quiet space to let God in.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you work with teens in ministry, read this. That is all.

[Ike Unger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sorry, I got half way and gave up

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

We were part of the YMSP and it revolutionized our youth ministry. We are the subject of one of chapters - Belovedness.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this -- introducing a difficult but spiritually powerful approach to youth ministry. Challenging and encouraging book