When God Shows Up: A History of Protestant Youth Ministry in America

Youth, Family, and Culture

by Mark H. Senter III

For more than two centuries, youth ministries have either strengthened teenagers after a special encounter with God or tried to retain them until such a moment when God shows up. Here veteran youth ministry expert Mark Senter provides the first substantial history of the phenomenon of American Protestant youth ministry. More than a history, this book highlights the evolution of adolescence and adolescent spirituality, outlines three distinct cycles in the history of youth ministry, describes the major shapers of youth ministry over the last century, and helps readers understand trends and changes in youth ministry and their connections to broader church life.

Genres: Christian, Church

384 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2010

Reviews

[Paul]

History of American youth ministry. Great. Inspiring. Thought provoking. Encouraging. Good stuff.

[Benjamin Denen]

A bit overly repetitive and some biases were too evident. Well thought out and researched though.

[Steve Taylor]

Good overview of Protestant Youth ministry, though sometimes he pushes his metaphors so hard you wonder how accurate the history truly is.