Chap Clark and Kara E. Powell of the Fuller Youth Institute published a book in 2007 that, I hope, makes the pursuit of justice within the reach and understanding of every youth minister. There are solid development principals throughout this book (or so my wife tells me), but the language is simplified. The content of this book is also multi-disciplinary. The authors employ basic biblical studies, education theory, ministry experience and more. Topics explored include racial reconciliation, economic justice and very practical, useful, advice on how to mobilize youth.
The greatest strength of this book is how clear it makes it that moving toward justice with youth means more than service projects and short term mission trips. Not only do the authors call these practices into question, but they provide tangible steps toward helping youth find their own ways to right wrongs.
I also especially enjoyed the interviews in the book. At the end of every chapter, the authors ask a leader in the field a few questions regarding the topic of that chapter. Some contributors are experienced youth leaders; others are experts in development or famous church leaders. Their contributions put heart into the very practical content of the book. They also share some very moving stories.
This book, and its companion, Deep Ministry in a Shallow World, are not the most well written books about youth ministry available, but they are must reads. The conversations that can come from this content can help us to develop healthy youth ministries that shape young lives and serve the communities around us.
No comments:
Post a Comment