Youth Ministry Unscripted: The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast

On Productivity in Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 7 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Becca, Isaiah, and Danny talk candidly about productivity as a key component of gospel-centered youth ministry. Productivity is not about chasing results or proving worth, but faithful stewardship of the limited time we’ve been given. The hosts highlight common obstacles like constant crises, unclear expectations, misalignment with broader church vision, and fluctuating motivation. Then they share tips, tricks, and resources that have helped them in their youth ministry roles.

The Busy Youth Minister by Josh Cousineau

Redeeming the Time: Managing the Nebulous Work of Youth Ministry by Connor Coskery

Youth Ministry Management by Mike Work and Ginny Olson

The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni

Getting Things Done by David Allen

Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Teaching Biblical Sexuality to Teens by Jennifer Kvamme

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference, Jennifer Kvamme outlines six essential foundational truths that youth leaders must teach to prepare students to think biblically about sexuality. With clarity and conviction, this session equips leaders to ground teens in God’s design while engaging today’s cultural challenges with grace and wisdom.

Jennifer has served in youth ministry at Centennial Church in Forest Lake, MN, for 20 years. She’s the author of More to the Story: Deep Answers to Real Questions on Attraction, Identity, and Relationships. She and her husband, Greg, have three children.

Rooted Resources:

More to the Story Deep Answers to Real Questions on Attraction, Identity, and Relationships by Jennifer Kvamme

A Bad Trade: Helping Teenagers See Sexual Sin Clearly by Jennifer Kvamme

Parents, Let’s Reframe the Sexuality Conversation by Jennifer Kvamme

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Why Are You Cast Down? Hope in God by Harold Kim

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this reflective workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference, Harold Kim walks through Psalm 42, offering encouragement and hope for those in seasons of spiritual dryness or discouragement. The session follows three movements:

The Condition – what it means to be spiritually cast down

The Causes – what might lead us there

The Cure – how Scripture points us to hope in God

This session is a heartfelt invitation to find rest, renewal, and confidence in the God who sees and sustains.

Harold Kim is the founding pastor of Christ Central of Southern California, and serves on the board for Christ Central Network (CCN) and as president of SOLA. He graduated from UC Berkeley, received his master of divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and his master of theology from Princeton Theological Seminary. He was ordained by the Presbyterian Church in America in 2001. Harold is gratefully married to Sun Hi and a happy father of two daughters, Taylor and Elizabeth. His great joy and passion is to see lives changed as Jesus Christ becomes central to everything.

When The Fire Goes Out: Finding Comfort in Ministry by Isaiah Marshall

Psalm 42: A Psalm for Sad Seasons by Kendal Conner

Student Series: Panting in the Desert: Seeking God When He Feels Like A Fake, A Figment, or Far Away by Annie Talton

Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian in Community by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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Connecting with Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of YMU, Rebecca, Josh, Isaiah, and Danny consider Rooted’s pillar of relational discipleship and how it inspires us to connect with teenagers in our churches. The hosts share insight about when the youth minister needs to connect with students personally and how to engage ministry volunteers in this important work. They offer some effective ways to connect with teenagers relationally.

“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us” (1 Thess. 2:8).

Rooted Webinar: Creating a Culture of Gospel Welcome in Youth Ministry

What Does Relational Discipleship Actually Look Like?

Watch Rooted’s Past Training Videos and Webinars

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Creating a Culture of Rest in Ministry by Jonathan Holmes

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference, Jonathan Holmes unpacks what it means to pursue true rest in ministry. Framed around four key movements—the problem with rest, the answer to rest, how to rest personally, and how to build cultures of rest—this session offers practical and theological insight for leaders who want to lead from a place of peace rather than burnout.

Jonathan Holmes is the Founder and Executive Director of Fieldstone Counseling. He previously served for fifteen years on the pastoral teams of Parkside Church and Parkside Green. Jonathan graduated from The Master’s University with degrees in Biblical Counseling and History and his MA from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is the author and contributor to a number of books including, The Company We Keep, Counsel for Couples, Rescue Skills, and Rescue Plan. He and his wife, Jennifer, have four daughters.

When The Fire Goes Out: Finding Comfort in Ministry by Isaiah Marshall

Caring for Your Soul as a Youth Minister by Mark Upton

Burnout: The Cost of Caring by Christina Maslach

Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God's Work by Timothy Keller

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Working with Ministry Volunteers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 3 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Rebecca, Josh, Isaiah, and Danny discuss the topic of recruiting and serving with volunteer youth leaders. They cover what makes a good youth leader, mistakes they have made with ministry volunteers, and advice they would give to fellow youth ministers in leading volunteer teams. If you’re looking for help and support to care for the lay leaders on your team, this conversation is for you!

Practically Speaking, How to Train Your Volunteers by Seth Stewart

Youth Minister, You Need to Empower Lay Leaders by Justin Talbert

Ask Rooted: How Do You Train and Empower Lay Leaders in Your Youth Ministry? Part I and Part II

Purpose Driven Youth Ministry by Doug Fields

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Apologetics in Youth Ministry by Bradley Blaylock

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference, Bradley Blaylock explores the role of apologetics in youth ministry—not just as content, but as a teaching posture. He outlines approaches to help leaders raise apologetic issues naturally, equipping students to think biblically about their faith.

Bradley serves as a Professor of Theological Studies at Highlands College in Birmingham, AL. He and his wife live in Birmingham with their adorable children. Bradley is a PhD student at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary studying the Philosophy of Religion.

Two Simple Shifts for Teaching Apologetics in Youth Ministry by Bradley Blaylock

Youth Pastor, Your Students Need Apologetics by Bradley Blaylock

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Holiness Without the Guilt Trip- Teaching Teens to Appreciate Faithfulness

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah Marshall, Josh Hussung, Danny Kwon, and Becca Heck wrestle with how to teach holiness without drifting into guilt, shame, or moralism. Grounded in Scripture, the conversation reframes holiness not as behavior modification, but as a joyful, relational response to the gospel. The hosts explore how youth ministries can unintentionally slip into legalism, how to speak about sin without leaving students feeling hopeless, and how relational discipleship creates space for grace, confession, and growth. With honesty, humor, and pastoral wisdom, this episode offers youth leaders practical ways to model holiness anchored in Christ’s finished work, not performance.

Scripture & Themes Referenced

Leviticus 11:44 – “Be holy, for I am holy”

1 Peter 1:16 – Holiness as a call rooted in God’s character

Isaiah 6 – God’s holiness and moral perfection

Matthew 5–7 (Sermon on the Mount) – Holiness of heart, not just behavior

1 Thessalonians 5:14 – Responding differently to the idle, weak, and discouraged

Relational Discipleship – Walking with students over time, not managing behavior

Gospel-Centered Holiness – Living from acceptance, not for acceptance

Biggie Size Your Grace in the Pursuit of Holiness by Andy Cornett

Discipling Teenagers in the Meaning of the Law by Chelsea Kingston Erickson 

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Watch the episode on Youtube!

Answering Tough Questions By Jennifer Kvamme

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference, Jennifer Kvamme equips youth leaders to respond wisely and faithfully to the difficult questions students often ask. She addresses three common questions and presents a four-principle framework for navigating challenging conversations with grace and clarity.

Resources:

More to the Story Deep Answers to Real Questions on Attraction, Identity, and Relationships by Jennifer Kvamme

When Your Teenager Has Doubts and Questions by Kyle Bjerga

Encouragement for Parents: When Kids Ask Tough Questions by Steve Eatmon

Answering Our Teenagers’ Hard Questions About Culture by Rooted

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Unsung Heroes: Faithful Witnesses For the Kingdom

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 3 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Danny, Isaiah, and Becca dive into the often-overlooked legacy of Black Christians in church history. As Black History Month invites the church to celebrate diversity in God’s kingdom, the hosts explore why many faithful Black voices remain hidden from mainstream narratives—and what youth pastors can do about it. From early church fathers in North Africa to the American civil rights era, this conversation challenges us to broaden our understanding of church history and elevate voices that have long been sidelined. Listeners will walk away encouraged to disciple their students with a deeper awareness of the global, multicultural body of Christ—and equipped with practical ideas for building more inclusive youth ministries.

Resources and Mentions

Talking to Your White Kids About Black History Month - Rooted Ministry

Relational Discipleship in the Black Church - Rooted Ministry

Richard Allen – Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church

Lemuel Haynes – First ordained African American minister in the U.S.

Howard Thurman – Theologian and mentor to Martin Luther King Jr.

Fannie Lou Hamer – Voting rights activist and devout Christian

James Cone – Father of Black Liberation Theology; The Cross and the Lynching Tree

The Edmondson Center (at RTS Atlanta) – Recommended by Becca for their year-long certificate program on church history and theology (directed by Karen & Carl Ellis)

Bus Ride to Justice – Isaiah’s experiential trip with students to key civil rights locations (Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma, Tuskegee)

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Developing Expository Messages for Youth By Mike McGarry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Mike McGarry helps us deliver expository messages for you. What does it mean to teach the Bible expositionally to students? In this episode, Mike defines expository teaching and why it matters. You'll learn how to align your message with the main idea of the biblical text and walk away with four essential questions to guide your prep.

Mike is the Founder and Director of Youth Pastor Theologian and served as an ordained youth pastor for nearly twenty years in Massachusetts. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, with an emphasis on Ministry to Emerging Generations, and is the author of multiple books on youth ministry.

Rooted Resources:

Youth Pastor Theologian

Rethinking Expository Bible Teaching (Confessions of a Struggling Youth Minister) by John Gardner

Why Youth Pastors Should Teach Expository Bible Messages by Syler Thomas

Parents, Value Expository Teaching at Youth Group by Jennifer Kvamme Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Watch Out-Keeping Our Eyes Open for the Pitfalls that Come with Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Danny, Isaiah, and Becca reflect on the “landmines” of youth ministry through the lens of 1 Peter 5:8: being sober-minded and watchful because the devil prowls like a roaring lion. They discuss dangers such as the “savior complex,” prideful isolation, us-versus-them attitudes toward church leadership and parents, unhealthy comparison with other ministries, and the temptation to measure success by numbers instead of faithfulness.

There is also a danger of neglecting our own souls—becoming “professional Christians” whose Bible reading is only for teaching prep, not personal communion with God. We will discuss both those “landmines” as well as how they can be avoided.

Resources:

Dangerous Calling by Paul David Tripp

Sticky Faith by Kara Powell and Chap Clark

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Building a Scope and Sequence for Biblical Literacy in Children’s Ministry and Parents by Tara Davis and Cameron Cole

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Tara Davis and Cameron Cole emphasize the central focus of every gospel-centered children’s ministry: the Bible. They present three key approaches to help grow children’s biblical literacy and offer practical guidance for implementing each one in your ministry context. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, this session equips you to faithfully ground your ministry in God’s Word.

About the Speakers:

Tara Davis serves as the Director of Nursery and Children’s Ministry at Church of the Advent in Birmingham, Alabama. A former elementary school teacher, she taught for ten years across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. Tara was named Teacher of the Year at Crestline Elementary and received the Ann Pritchard Award for Excellence in Teaching—an honor given to the top educator in the Mountain Brook School System. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from the University of Georgia and an M.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Tara is married to Kyle, and they have a son and daughter.

Cameron Cole is the Founding Chairman of Rooted Ministry and serves as the Director of Adult and NextGen Discipleship at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Birmingham, Alabama. With nearly two decades of experience in youth and family ministry, Cameron is the author of Therefore I Have Hope, Heavenward (2024), and co-editor of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry and The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School. He holds both an undergraduate degree and an M.A. in Education from Wake Forest University, as well as an M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary. Cameron and his wife, Lauren, have four children—one of whom lives in heaven.

Rooted Resources:

Family Discipleship Video Courses

Resources for Family Ministry (Rooted Roundup)

Rooted’s Scope & Sequence for Youth Ministry Bible Teaching

How to Lead Collaboration Between Youth and Children’s Ministry by Andy Cornett

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Preparing Students for Life Beyond Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 6 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Isaiah, Danny, and new co-host Becca focus on a crucial season in student discipleship: senior year. They unpack why senior year is such a unique window for ministry. The hosts discuss helping seniors see the church as more than youth group, preparing them to find a gospel-centered church in college, and giving them categories for God’s will, vocation, and faithful involvement in the local church. While there are a lot of potential pitfalls in post-highschool life, there are a lot of great opportunities for students to grow in their faith, and thrive in their walk with Christ in their new season.

Making Youth Group ‘Senior Night’ More Than Once Each Year - Rooted Ministry

The Summer Before College: A Graduating Senior Gameplan - Rooted Ministry

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No Such Thing As a SuperMom with Alice Churnock and Hannah Dow

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this final episode of our season Can't Do It All, Anna welcomes back Rooted podcaster Alice Churnock and introduces our brand-new executive director Hannah Dow. We invited them to talk about the (potential) overwhelm of being a mother. Both of these moms juggle full-time jobs while running their households, caring for elderly parents, serving at church, and attempting to maintain friendships and good health. Additionally, Hannah is a single mother. You'll want to hear how they find rest in the gospel, but you'll also glean some practical tips. Be encouraged by their wholehearted pursuit of Jesus in the midst of their busy lives.

Finding the Gospel in "Home Alone"

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this special Christmas episode of the Rooted Parent Podcast, father and veteran youth pastor Syler Thomas join Cameron and Anna to discuss about the misadventures of Kevin McAllister and his family. They talk about parenting failures, regrets, and redemption, and how, because of Christ, we are not condemned for our shortcomings as moms and dads.

Deconstructing Without Demolishing: Walking with Students Through Doubt

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny dive deep into one of the most vulnerable areas of student discipleship: doubt. Drawing from Mark 9 and personal ministry experiences, the hosts explore how youth pastors can respond when students express questions or wrestle with deconstruction. They offer guidance on how to walk with students through doubt without minimizing it or turning it into a theological debate.

The trio challenges youth leaders to create ministry cultures where curiosity and questions are welcomed, not shamed. Through biblical reflection, practical examples, and honest dialogue, they remind listeners that doubt is not the enemy of faith—disconnection is. The episode closes with encouragement for youth leaders to stay faithful, point students to Jesus, and let the Holy Spirit do the transforming work.

Resources:

Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith by Mike McGarry

Gospel Hope for Doubting Teenagers

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Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.

Check out our Youth Ministry and Family Ministry Mentorship Program

God, Gender, and Grace for Challenging Conversations by Jonathan Holmes

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 9 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Jonathan Holmes offers a gospel-centered framework for engaging in conversations about gender. He begins with two cultural observations that shape how we think about identity today and then outlines five key problems with modern-day identity formation. With clarity and compassion, Jonathan equips ministry leaders to speak truthfully and graciously into one of the most complex topics facing today’s teens.

Rooted Resources:

Rooted Recommends: Preston and Jackie Hill Perry on Gender Identity, Biblical Womanhood, and Girly Girls

Sex, Gender, & Sexuality

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Listen to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you get your podcasts.

We’re Not Their Savior

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 2 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Danny, Isaiah, and Josh dive into the subtle but dangerous “Messiah Complex” that many youth pastors wrestle with—the belief that they must save, fix, or be everything to everyone. From the weight of unmet expectations to the exhaustion of blurred boundaries, this episode uncovers how this mindset leads to burnout and misplaced identity. The hosts offer reflections, cautionary tales, and gospel-rooted encouragement to release control, honor healthy limits, and trust the Holy Spirit to do the work only He can do.

Letter to a Youth Worker Experiencing Burnout - Rooted Ministry

Trusting God With Our Plans For Our Ministries

Check out our Youth Ministry and Family Ministry Mentorship Program

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Book Awards

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of YMU, Danny hosts the 7th annual Rooted Book Awards. These Book Awards serve our listeners who might not have the time or budget to read every book out there. It includes categories of books for Youth Ministers, Parents, Bible Teaching, and Teenagers. Happy reading!

Accessible Church: A Gospel-Centered Vision for Including People with Disabilities and Their Families by Sarah Peoples (Crossway)

Don’t Despise Our Youth: Renewing Hope for Urban Youth by David Washington (InterVarsity Press)

Managing Your Households Well by Chap Bettis (P&R Publishing)

Mothering Against Futility Balancing Meaning and Mundanity in the Fear of the Lord By Simona Gorton (Christian Focus)

Beyond the Back Row: Rediscovering the Beauty of the Local Church for Your Family by Katie Polski (Christian Focus)

Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age Edited by Brett McCracken and Ivan Mesa (Crossway)

The Gospel After Christendom: An Introduction to Cultural Apologetics eds. Collin Hansen, Skyler R. Flowers, and Ivan Mesa (Zondervan)

From Eden to Egypt: A Guided Tour of Genesis (9Marks) by Alex Duke (Zondervan)

Gospel Stories: How The Greatest Story Is Richer, Deeper, and More Wonderful Than We Think by Andrew Wilson (10 Publishing)

Understanding Biblical Law: Thinking With And Through Torah by Dru Johnson (Baker Academic)

12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust: Core Beliefs of the Christian That Will Change Your Life by Paul David Tripp (Crossway)

Make It Your Ambition by Jeremy Writebol (The Gospel Coalition)

Iconic: Being God’s Image in Your World by Mike McGarry (New Growth Press)

Worth It: Following Jesus When Life Feels Complicated by Chris Morphew (The Good Book Company)

Youth Ministry Culture and Social Media Today

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny address youth ministry culture, especially as it interacts with the influence of social media. They discuss how social media impacts our students and how we as youth pastors can navigate it well for greater gospel influence.

Resources:
Unplugged: Encouraging Students Toward Offline Living - Rooted Ministry
Why Teens Compulsively Use Social Media - Rooted Ministry
Social Media: Four Considerations From a Youth Pastor to Parents - Rooted Ministry

Social Media Pressure by John Perritt
Social Sanity in an Insta World by Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra

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Ministering to Students with Challenging Home Lives by Connie Nelson, Isaiah Marshall, Liz Edrington, and Anna Meade Harris

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this workshop discussion from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, four experienced ministry leaders—Connie Nelson, Isaiah Marshall, Liz Edrington, and Anna Meade Harris—tackle the important and complex topic of ministering to students who come from difficult home environments. They share why this issue is close to their hearts, explore what constitutes a challenging home life, offer practical strategies for building trust with students, and much more.

About the Panelists

Connie Nelson has over a decade of youth ministry experience in Edmonton, Alberta, where she also leads in her church’s college ministry and serves with a Guatemalan missions organization.
Isaiah Marshall is a husband, father, and spoken word artist. He serves as Director of Ministry Development at Rooted Ministry and is a Chaplain in the Air Force Reserve.
Liz Edrington is the Associate Director of Care at McLean Presbyterian Church. A counselor, professor, and award-winning author, she is passionate about gospel-centered care for youth and families.
Anna Meade Harris is Rooted’s Contributing Editor and co-host of the Rooted Parent Podcast. She is also the author of God’s Grace for Every Family and a leading voice on ministering to single-parent families.

Rooted Resources:

Ministering to Teenagers with Challenging Home Lives by Connie Nelson, Isaiah Marshall, Miz Edrington, and Anna Meade Harris

Ministering to Students in Crisis

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Navigating Politics and Polarization

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny address politics and the divide it has created in our nation and how it has impacted our youth groups. They tackle some hot-button issues and give tips on how to navigate political discussion. Finally, they discuss developing a Christ-centered identity that transcends politics.

Resources:
Rooted Youth Ministry and Family Ministry Mentorship Programs
When the Conversation at Youth Group Turns to Politics - Rooted Ministry
Five Truths We Must Tell Our Kids in a World of Political Chaos and Madness - Rooted Ministry

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What Youth Pastors’ Families Want You to Know by Syler Thomas

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Syler Thomas reflects on the complex but beautiful intersection of family and ministry. Drawing from years of personal experience, Syler shares four key insights: 1) God will use your family to bless your ministry, 2) God will use your ministry to bless your family, 3) You must intentionally define healthy boundaries for your family, 4) When sharing about your kids, get their permission—and give them space to just be kids, especially if they’re in your youth group. This practical and heartfelt talk is filled with wisdom for anyone navigating ministry while raising children.

Syler Thomas is a native Texan and has served as the student ministries pastor at Christ Church in Lake Forest, Illinois, since 1998. He writes for YouthWorker Journal, with additional work published in Leadership Journal and the Chicago Tribune, and is the co-author of two books. He and his wife, Heidi, are parents to four children.

The Value of Presence in Youth Ministry by Shaun McDonald

What Does Relational Discipleship Actually Look Like? - Rooted Ministry

Creating Space for Teenagers to Play in Youth Ministry

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Partnering with Parents

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

n this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny discuss the frustrations and the blessings of partnering with parents in your youth ministry. There is a huge potential for Gospel impact when youth ministry leaders and parents link arms to disciple the next generation.

Show Them the Gospel: Partnering with Parents in an Asian-American Church - Rooted Ministry

Partnering with Parents of Teenagers in the Black Church - Rooted Ministry

Learning to Partner with Parents of Teenagers, Not Judge Them - Rooted Ministry

Rooted Family Ministry Mentorship

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Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

"Impacting the Spiritual Lives of Parents So They Can Lead Their Teenagers" by Dr. Richard Ross

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Dr. Richard Ross asks a crucial question: What can youth ministers do to invest in the spiritual lives of parents? With wisdom and clarity, Dr. Ross shares practical strategies to equip and empower parents to disciple their teenagers toward a lifelong faith in Jesus.

Richard Ross, PhD, is husband to LaJuana, who has joined him in a lifetime of loving teenagers. Richard served as student pastor for thirty years and now is a volunteer with teenagers and parents in his church. Richard is professor to the next generation of student pastors at Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth. He has written over 25 books and speaks in over 40 conferences and churches each year.

Rooted Resources:

Resources for Engaging Teenagers Spiritually—at Church and at Home

Engaging Teenagers Spiritually—at Church and at Home

Rooted Parent Podcast

Youth Ministry Through the Years

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 7 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny look back over the decades of their time in youth ministry. A lot has changed since the 90s and early 2000s. Listen to this discussion about the huge opportunity we have to impact the lives of students with the gospel today.

Resources:

Ask Rooted: How Do You Shift to Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry?

Youth Minister, Cool Is Overrated - Rooted Ministry

What Teenagers Need in a Youth Pastor Might Surprise You - Rooted Ministry

Youth Talk Sheets

Food Planning Chart

Pizza Planning iPhone Shortcut

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Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

What Difference Does the Imago Dei Make? By Mike McGarry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this thought-provoking workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Mike McGarry explores how a proper understanding of the Imago Dei—the image of God—shapes our identity and discipleship. Arguing that much of today’s cultural confusion stems from forgetting what it means to be human, Mike walks through the biblical storyline of creation, fall, redemption, and glorification to show how the Imago Dei is a unifying thread throughout Scripture. He also offers practical insight into why this matters for youth and family discipleship today.

Rooted Resources:

Youth Pastor Theologian

Iconic: Being God's Image in Your World (Real World Theology) by Mike McGarry

Calvin, Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life, and The Image of God for Youth: Part 1 by Dan Wolf

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Modeling a Healthy Relationship During the Election by Jason Woodruff

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this insightful workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Jason Woodruff explores how Christians can cultivate biblical boundaries around the news and politics they consume. He outlines six practical ways to build a spiritually healthy relationship with media in today’s polarized, fast-paced world.

Jason is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Pour Over, a politically neutral news source read by over 1 million Christians each week. He also leads NewsHealth, an initiative aimed at helping believers navigate the news with wisdom and faith.

Rooted Resources:

The Pour Over

Parents, Just Turn Off the News (Responsibly) by Cameron Cole

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When the Fruit Isn’t There: Faithfully Leading Without the Results You Hoped For

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny get honest about the quiet discouragement youth leaders often carry– when the seats are empty, the students are disengaged, and the fruit just isn’t showing up the way you hoped for. Together, they explore what it looks like to stay faithful, how to redefine “success” in kingdom terms, and why unseen obedience still matters deeply to God.

Advice to My Younger Self in Youth Ministry—20 Years Later by Steve Eatmon

How Gospel-Centrality Prioritizes Long-Term Fruit in Youth Ministry by Michael Goldstein

Check out our Youth Ministry Training Courses for extra encouragement and resources!

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Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Faith in Exile: Teaching Daniel to Students by Kendal Conner

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 9 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

n this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Kendal Conner equips youth leaders with practical tools for teaching the book of Daniel to students. With warmth and clarity, she offers encouragement for navigating this complex book and demonstrates how it can be both accessible and transformative for young hearts.

Kendal has spent over a decade in youth ministry and currently serves as the Director of Sunday Schools at Redeemer Kansas City in Missouri, where she also remains active in student ministry. A native of Memphis, TN, Kendal holds a B.A. from Union University with a minor in theology. She spent two years overseas working with youth before serving in parachurch and local church contexts back in the U.S.

Rooted Resources:

Bible Project on the Book of Daniel

Daniel for You: For Reading, for Feeding, for Leading (God's Word for You) by David Helm

Help Me Teach the Bible Podcast Episode with David Helm

How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle

Six Reasons Teenagers Need the Book of Daniel by Seth Stewart

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Who Shepherds the Shepherd? Why Every Youth Minister Needs a Ministry Tribe

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny unpack why all youth ministers need a tribe. Not just to survive—but to thrive in the call God has placed on our lives. The three discuss the power of peer relationships, the danger of isolation, and how to build rhythms of mutual support and encouragement in ministry. Because you weren’t meant to carry the call to ministry alone.

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!

Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Consuming News in the TikTok Era. Who Can You (And Your Teens) Trust by Jason Woodruff

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Jason Woodruff explores how today’s media landscape—especially platforms like TikTok—has changed the way we consume news. He walks through the history of news dissemination, explains how social media algorithms shape what we see, and offers practical advice for developing a spiritually healthy relationship with the news—for you and your teens.

Rooted Resources:

The Pour Over

Discernment for A Digital Age: Practical Steps towards Online Media Literacy for Teens by Anne Chen

Parents, Just Turn Off the News (Responsibly) by Cameron Cole

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Parenting Ahead with Kristen Hatton

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Kristen Hatton unpacks the five P's of parenting to help parents become more self-aware, stay motivated toward their children, and lead their homes with gospel-centered purpose and hope.

Kristen is a counselor who works with teenage girls, parents, and families. She’s the author of Parenting Ahead, Face Time, Get Your Story Straight, and The Gospel-Centered Life in Exodus for Students. Kristen lives in Dallas with her pastor husband and is the mom of three young adults and a son-in-law. Learn more at www.kristenhatton.com.

Rooted Resources:

Parenting Ahead: Preparing Now for the Teen Years by Kristen Hatton

Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teens by Paul David Tripp

How Parents Build the Fire and Pray for the Flame by Ben Birdsong

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Helping Unengaged Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny discuss the continual and important issue of unengaged students. From students on your youth ministry rosters who do not attend, to those who do attend but are not fully engaged or very active in youth group. In considering these students, they discuss various ways to get these unengaged students more engaged into church and youth group.

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!

Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference

The Eras Tour - Navigating Longevity in Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry With Justin Wong

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 5 Aug 2025 13:13:10 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, veteran youth pastor Justin Wong reflects on how culture—through wars, elections, and even music—has shaped youth ministry over the years. He offers honest encouragement for the weary youth worker, while highlighting both the challenges and the unique opportunities that come with serving the next generation.

Justin has served in youth and family ministry for over 23 years. He holds degrees from Houston Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Tina, and together they have two daughters, Ella and Mia.

Rooted Resources:

Lessons Learned During My First Year of Youth Ministry: Leadership Takes Time by Taylor Sutton

The Joy and Crown of Youth Ministry by Clark Fobes

Making Space for Encouragement in Youth Ministry by Ericson Joubert

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Communicating the Importance of Family Ministry with Jimmy Kim

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Jimmy Kim explores the heart of family ministry—what it is, why it matters, and how churches can cultivate it in their own context. With over 20 years of experience across youth, college, and family ministry, Jimmy offers a practical and gospel-centered approach for churches of all sizes and backgrounds.

Jimmy serves as the Executive Director of Family Transformation at Perimeter Church near Atlanta, GA. He’s a husband to Shin and dad to two soccer-loving kids. His ministry journey spans both immigrant and multiethnic church contexts, with academic roots at the University of Maryland, Washington Bible College, Atlanta Christian College, and Reformed Theological Seminary.

Rooted Resources:

How to Start a Family Ministry in Your Church by Andy Cornett

Resources for Family Ministry (Rooted Roundup)

Perspectives on Family Ministry: 3 Views by Timothy Paul Jones

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

The Summer High

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny talk about the youth ministry "summer high." They describe the positive and negative aspects of the annual "summer high," and discuss how to counteract the negatives. Our hosts also discuss transitioning from great summer ministries into the fall and beyond, developing programs for cohesive year-round ministry to students.

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference.

Making the Most of Summer

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, we discuss the changes that occur in youth ministry during the summer months. The rhythm of ministry shifts, the workload changes, and the importance of building relational connections with students are all important factors in thinking about our summer. We also talk about the challenges of maintaining programming consistency and the unique opportunities that summer presents for youth workers to connect with students.

Ask Rooted: What Does Relational Discipleship Look Like During the Summer?

Resources for Summer Youth Ministry Planning (Rooted Roundup)

Summer Resources

Maximizing Summer Youth Ministry: Balancing Activity and Rest

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Nurturing a Youth Ministry (Culture) that Fosters Intergenerational Ministry with Danny Kwon

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 9 Jul 2025 14:29:18 +0000

In this insightful workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Dr. Danny Kwon explores how to cultivate a youth ministry culture that embraces intergenerational integration. He unpacks why connecting generations within the church is vital to discipling students for a lifelong faith in Jesus, and offers practical steps for how you can implement intergenerational ministry in your unique context.

Danny Kwon, Ph.D., is the Senior Director of Youth Ministry Content and Cross-Cultural Initiatives at Rooted Ministry. Prior to joining Rooted, Danny served for 29 years as the Youth and Family Pastor at Yuong Sang Church, a bicultural and bilingual Korean-American congregation outside Philadelphia. He is married to Monica, a Christian counselor and psychologist, and together they have three children.

Rooted Resources:

Book Review ‘Faith Beyond Youth Group’ by Kara Powell, Brad M. Griffin, and Jen Bradbury by Danny Kwon

When Intergenerational Integration Feels Impossible by Skyler Flowers

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Recruiting and Training Volunteers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 2 Jul 2025 16:47:34 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Isaiah, and Danny discuss the critical role of volunteers in youth ministry. They talk about recruiting and retaining volunteers, the various roles they can fill, and effective strategies for building relationships with them. We need to care for and connect with our volunteers, as well as provide clear expectations and ongoing communication to ensure a successful team experience.

Playing the Long Game: Five Suggestions for Retaining Volunteers in Your Youth Ministry by Ryan Wood

Serving Your Youth Volunteers by Josh Hussung

Asian American Youth Ministry and Volunteers: Expectations and Hardships

Three Reasons Why Empty Nesters Are the Best Youth Volunteers by Tracey Rector

Resources for Volunteer Development

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Gospel+Safety+Time with Vince Greenwald

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:47:54 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted conference in Dallas, veteran youth leader Vince Greenwald shares the essential values of the church, and the youth ministry where he serves. While acknowledging that what students need, more than anything, everytime they gather, is the gospel. But the additional elements of offering a safe environment- defined as “every student needs a place where they can stop trying to be impressive and start being known” - and time allow students to flourish in the manner and timeline the Lord has decreed. Stay tuned for his six questions at the end to help you discern if the gospel, safety, and time are central values in your ministry to teenagers.

Vince Greenwald serves an assistant pastor at Immanuel Church Nashville and holds a MA in Biblical and Theological Studies from Covenant Theological Seminary. He and his wife Caroline live in Nashville, Tennessee with their children Bear, Lila, and Grace. Vince seeks to joyfully follow Jesus and serve the Church with Caroline, bringing students and their families along with them.

Romans 1:16

1 Corinthians 3:6

1 John 1:7

Rooted Resources:

What Is Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry? by Chelsea Kingston Erickson

The Slow Process of Growth by Josh Hussung

The Long, Slow Work of Gospel Formation by Kendal Connor

Depend, Believe, and Obey: Unleashing the Power of the Gospel by Dave Hart

Gospel Catechisms for Young Children and Teenagers

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Faith That Endures: Preparing Students for the Hard Roads Ahead

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:37:09 +0000

In this honest and hope-filled episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny tackle a topic often overlooked in youth ministry: preparing students for suffering. As high school graduates transition into adulthood, our youth ministries must do more than celebrate. We must disciple them with a theology of suffering rooted in Christ. The hosts share personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical strategies for equipping students with a faith that endures beyond the youth room. From reframing popular Bible verses to discussing God’s presence in pain, this conversation is raw, real, and necessary.

Rooted Resources on Suffering

Tish Harrison Warren, “Working, Watching, Weeping”

Fear Factor in Parenting: We Dread Seeing Our Children Suffer, with Tish Harrison Warren

Tish Harrison Warren, “Why Are You Downcast? What the Promises of God Are (and Are Not) in Suffering”

Fear Factor in Parenting: When Our Asian American Children Face Racism with Owen Lee, Tracy Yi and Kevin Yi

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Developing Expository Messages for Youth with Mike McGarry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 19:14:48 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas TX, Mike McGarry dives deep into the topic of delivering expository messages for youth. Mike begins by discussing the difference between expository teaching and biblical teaching. He provides a helpful definition of expository teaching and gives us a framework for how to faithfully teach God’s word the way God’s word is written and show our youth how it applies in all spheres of life.

Mike McGarry is the Director of Youth Pastor Theologian, has served as a Youth Pastor for 18 years in Massachusetts, and has two youth group aged kids at home. He earned his D.Min. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and has published three books – most recently, “Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith.” Mike is committed to training youth workers to think biblically about what youth ministry is and to training them to teach theologically with confidence. Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum

How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle

Youth Pastor Theologian Podcast with Mike McGarry

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

More Is Caught Than Taught: How Leadership Culture Shapes Student Faith

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 4 Jun 2025 13:05:01 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny unpack how the culture of a youth ministry’s leadership team profoundly impacts the faith of students. They reflect on why students are more shaped by what leaders model than what they say, and explore how authenticity, humility, and spiritual health within the leadership team can either build up or break down student faith formation. The trio also gets real about vulnerability boundaries, how to handle team drama, and practical rhythms that help leaders stay grounded in their own walk with Jesus. If you're leading a team or discipling students, this conversation is full of honest wisdom and helpful guidance.

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates.
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference!

Missions and Youth Ministry with Josh Newton, Danny Kwon and Isaiah Marshall

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 28 May 2025 20:26:10 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas TX, Josh Newton, Danny Kwon, and Isaiah Marshall dive deep into the topic of missions and youth ministry. Together, they explore the value of short-term mission trips, how they shape students spiritually, and the importance of aligning mission work with a gospel-centered philosophy. Each guest brings their unique background and practical experience to the conversation offering honest insights and encouragement for youth pastors looking to cultivate mission-minded students.

Josh Newton is the Pastor of Student Ministries at The Orchard EFC in Illinois with 15 years of experience. Danny Kwon, Ph.D., is Rooted’s Senior Director of Youth Ministry Content and formerly served 29 years at Yuong Sang Church near Philadelphia. Isaiah Marshall is a spoken word poet, author, and Director of Ministry Development at Rooted.Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum

How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle

Consider Staying Close to Home for Your Youth Groups Mission Trip by Isaiah Marshall

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

A Pathway for Healthy Tech Use with Cameron Cole

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 20 May 2025 19:46:00 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas TX, Cameron Cole shares a pathway for healthy tech use. He starts with sharing why we need to be vigilant relative to our kids and technology and then shares practical plans to be proactive and not reactive as it relates to technology use in their kids. Cameron Cole is the founding chairman of Rooted Ministry. He is the co-editor of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide (Crossway, 2016) and The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School (New Growth Press). Cameron is the author of Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths that Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy (Crossway, 2018) and Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth (Crossway, 2024). Cameron is married to Lauren and together they have four children, one of whom lives in heaven.Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum

How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle

Download MB Plugged In Technology full report HERE

Rooted resources on social media and technology

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

Helping Students Who Struggle With Body Image

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 14 May 2025 13:49:18 +0000

In this second episode with author and counselor Andrea Lee, author of the devotional Body Image: Valuing God’s Good Gift, Danny and Josh explore the implications of students' struggles for ministry. They talk with Andrea how a youth leader might help teenagers with body image concerns, when churches might need to get parents involved, and how youth ministries might serve teenagers in ways that do not make body image issues worse.

Body Image: Valuing God’s Good Gift by Andrea Lee

Resources on Rooted
Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!
Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join us for Rooted 2025 in Chicago, October 23-25!

Building Relationships That Last with T.J. Lewis

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 6 May 2025 19:53:37 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas TX, T.J. Lewis shares how leaders can build relationships with the students they serve that lasts. In this talk, Lewis lays out practical ways leaders can befriend students and invest in them for years, even beyond youth group. T.J. Lewis serves as a youth pastor at Lake Church in Arlington, TX. T.J. is a proud husband to Bekah; dad to Anson, Cadence, and Zion; a Texan, a Rangers fan, and a barbecue aficionado.

Helping Students Develop a Healthy Body Image

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:16:47 +0000

In this episode, Danny and Josh sit down with Andrea Lee, author of Body Image: Valuing God’s Good Gift. They talk about her experience as a counselor to teenagers, and Lee shares why she wrote her book. In their conversation, Lee discusses the development of eating disorders, and why teenagers have such a difficult time accepting their bodies as a good gift from God. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

How to Encourage Teenagers with Your Words by Lindsey Carlson

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:57:41 +0000

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas TX, Lindsey Carlson shares how leaders can encourage teenagers with their words. In this talk, Lindsey shares that the most effective way to encourage teenagers is through the promises of God. Lindsey is the author of Growing in Godliness: A Teen Girl’s Guide to Maturing in Christ (Crossway 2019), A Better Encouragement: Trading Self-Help for True Hope (Crossway 2022), and Identity: Discovering Who You Are In Christ (P&R 2024). Lindsey Carlson is a pastor’s wife, a mother of five, and a devoted follower of Jesus. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Connecting with Students Relationally

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:23:04 +0000

Do you endure a lot of awkward silences? Do you ever have that kid in your youth group that only gives you one word answers when you’re trying to strike up conversation? In Episode 8 of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny discuss struggles and strategies for connecting with our students. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Sustainable Stability of God in a Chaotic World with Cameron Cole

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 8 Apr 2025 18:07:07 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, Cameron Cole unpacks the story of Daniel 7. In his talk, Cameron discusses the constant chaos of the world, the certain stability of God, and the sustainable safety of the gospel. Cameron Cole is the founding chairman of Rooted Ministry. He is the co-editor of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide (Crossway, 2016) and The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School (New Growth Press). Cameron is the author of Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths that Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy (Crossway, 2018) and Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth (Crossway, 2024). Cameron is married to Lauren and together they have four children, one of whom lives in heaven.

Rooted Resources:

Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum

How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates

On Teaching the Bible to Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:23:37 +0000

In this 7th episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny discuss the challenge of teaching the Bible to students. Youth ministers often struggle with what to teach as well as ways to teach Scripture in an engaging way. If you’ve ever scratched your head on the morning of your mid-week event and wondered “What am I going to say tonight?” this is a great episode for you! Rooted offers Bible curriculum for 26 books of the Bible and more! Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates! Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Daniel and the Lions' Den with Harold Kim

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 20:44:43 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, Harold Kim unpacks the story of Daniel 6. From Daniel 6, Harold passionately shares the most effective way to fulfill your mission and how to fulfil your mission. Harold Kim is the founding pastor of Christ Central of Southern California, and serves on the board for Christ Central Network (CCN) and as president of SOLA. Harold is gratefully married to Sun Hi and a happy father of two daughters, Taylor and Elizabeth. His great joy and passion is to see lives changed as Jesus Christ becomes central to everything. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Discipling Students in a Culture of Busyness: Helping Students Make Time for Jesus

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:13:16 +0000

In this 6th episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny tackle a challenge that youth pastors everywhere are facing: How do we disciple students who are too busy to show up? They dive into the pressures that students face—from academics to sports to social commitments—and how this impacts their spiritual lives. The hosts also discuss practical ways youth pastors can adapt to meet students where they are without adding to their already overwhelming schedules. If you’re struggling with tension of ministry and busyness, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and grace-filled strategies. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates! Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Gracious Pursuit of the Hound of Heaven with Anna Meade Harris

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 19:05:13 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, Anna Meade Harris unpacks the story of Daniel 4. Anna shares about the gracious pursuit of the Hound of Heaven. Anna Meade Harris is the is the Senior Director of Content at Rooted, co-host of the Rooted Parent podcast, and the author of God’s Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well (Zondervan, 2024), winner of Christianity Today’s 2024 Book Award in the Marriage, Family, and Singleness category. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Vital Role of Youth Ministry in the Larger Church Context

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 4 Mar 2025 20:24:26 +0000

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny dive into the role of youth ministry within the larger church context. They discuss the biblical and theological foundations for youth ministry, the importance of intergenerational integration, and the challenges of keeping students engaged in the church beyond high school. They also share practical strategies for strengthening connections between youth and the larger church body, as well as how to foster discipleship that lasts beyond youth group. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates! Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Rooted Conference: Revealer of Mysteries with Josh Hussung

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Josh Hussung) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, Josh Hussung unpacks the story of Daniel 2. Josh shares that God is the revealer of mysteries. Josh is the Pastor of Youth and Families at Grace Community Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and has been in youth ministry for over 18 years.

Rooted Resources:

Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum
Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago

Youth Ministry and Ethnically Segregated Churches (and Favorite Youth Ministry Games)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Isaiah Marshall, Josh Hussung) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:47:03 +0000

In this 4th episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny talk about ethnic segregation in church. Do our churches and youth groups need to be multicultural or not? They also talk about diversity and differences, and they share a famous Martin Luther King Jr. quote. The guys close the conversation talking about their favorite youth ministry games.

Rooted Conference: You Don’t Have to Know with John Onwuchekwa

rootedoperations@gmail.com (John Onwuchekwa) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:17:25 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, John Onwuchekwa (John O.) unpacks the story of Daniel 3. John O. shares how knowing God means you do not have to know the future. John is the North American Senior Director for Thought Leadership and Innovation for Redeemer City to City in New York, NY.

Rooted Resources:

Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum
Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago

Youth Ministry and Race, Culture, and Ethnicity (and Go-To Icebreakers)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Josh Hussung, Isaiah Marshall, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 4 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In view of Black History Month, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny talk about issues of race, ethnicity, and culture. They consider how race and ethnicity need to be talked about and taught in their churches and youth ministries. Stay tuned for their discussion of their favorite icebreakers for youth group.

Rooted Conference: Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel, I Know He’ll Deliver Me with KA Ellis

rootedoperations@gmail.com (K.A. Ellis) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this main session talk from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, TX, K.A. Ellis unpacks the story of Daniel 1. Ellis shares how the same God who delivered Daniel is faithful to deliver us. Ellis is the Director of the Edmiston Center at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia.

“Courage is a habit and it must become ours.”

Rooted Resources:

Purchase the Rooted Daniel Curriculum
How the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason Engle
Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago

Youth Ministry Struggles (and Pizza After Youth Group)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Josh Hussung, Isaiah Marshall, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:58:22 +0000

In this second episode ofYouth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny talk real, honest, and raw about some of the biggest struggles they face as youth ministry leaders. They share the biggest challenges that youth pastors and churches face in ministry today, as well as how the gospel shapes us to love Jesus in the difficulties. Serving in ministry has given each of them a love/hate relationship with takeout pizza…

Rooted Conference: Communicating the Importance of Family Ministry with Jimmy Kim

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Jimmy Kim) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 22:49:10 +0000

Offering the 'what' and the 'why' of family ministry, longtime family minister Jimmy Kim also shares the 'how' of implementing family ministry in the local church. Working off the definition of family ministry as "churches equipping and empowering parents to spiritually invest in their kids," he offers ways to develop a family ministry that works in your context, for the spiritual formation of parents and kids and for God's glory. Jimmy Kim is a husband, a father of two, and the Executive Director of Family Transformation at Perimeter Church near Atlanta, GA.

References:

How to Start a Family Ministry: A Practical Workshop with Cameron Cole
How to Start a Family Ministry handout
Deuteronomy 6: 4-9
Proverbs 22:6
Psalm 139
Ephesians 6:-14
Perspectives on Family MInistry: Three Views by Timothy Paul Jones
Handing Down the Faith: How Parents Pass Their Religion on to the Next Generation by Christian Smith and Amy Adamczyk
US Surgeon General Report on the Mental Health of Parents
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
How to Start a Family Ministry in Your Church by Andy Cornett
Find more information about Rooted's family ministry mentorship program.
Check out more resources on family ministry and family discipleship.
Join us for our 2025 Conference in Chicago, IL!

Youth Ministry Failures (and Good Snacks)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Josh Hussung, Isaiah Marshall, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 7 Jan 2025 21:48:49 +0000

In this premiere episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny talk real, honest, and raw about gospel-centered youth ministry. The guys talk about ministry failures and how the gospel has shaped them through the hard times. They will stress the importance of youth leaders having places to be real, honest, and raw about the difficulties of ministry. They will also share their greatest joys in ministry, as well as the best post youth group snack they ever had.

Ask the Experts: Hope for Parents of Teens with Melissa Kruger

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Cameron Cole, Melissa Kruger, Anna Meade Harris) — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 01:20:37 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Parent Podcast, Melissa Kruger, the Director of Women’s Content at The Gospel Coalition, joins Cameron and Anna to discuss her new book Parenting With Hope: Raising Teens for Christ in a Secular Age. Written from her own experience of raising teenagers, Parenting With Hope encourages parents to seek the Lord’s wisdom as they parent out of the basic guiding principles of Scripture. Listen in as Cameron, Anna, and Melissa discuss the power of prayer, the value of weekly church attendance, and the most common idols parents face. Finally, you’ll hear them share some tools that can help parents cultivate a home where faith can flourish and parent out of the hope of the gospel.

Resources:

Parenting With Hope: Raising Teens for Christ in a Secular Age by Melissa Kruger
Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teensby Paul David Tripp
The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults by Frances E. Jensen
The Price of Privilege: How Parental Pressure and Material Advantage are Creating a Generation of Disconnected and Unhappy Kids by Madeline Levine
Check out more Rooted resources on prayer here
Check out more Rooted resources on church here

Rooted’s 2024 Book Awards Show

Sun, 8 Dec 2024 20:54:11 +0000

In this episode, Danny hosts Rooted’s 6th annual book awards. He sits down to talk with Tracy Yi, Chelsea Erickson, Natalie Lett, and Tim Franks to discuss their selections for the 2024 Rooted Book Awards. Listen to hear their topic picks; the categories include best new books for youth ministers, parents, teenagers, and Bible teaching.

Here are your 2024 Book awards panelists:

Chelsea Kingston Erickson is Editor of Youth Ministry Content and the Director of Publishing for Rooted. She previously served as a youth pastor in New England churches for 13 years. She and her husband, Steve, live north of Boston and are parents to Wells and Emmett. Chelsea holds an M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where she is currently pursuing a Master of Theology (Th.M.) in Old Testament Studies. She is passionate about teaching teenagers biblical theology and helping them learn to study Scripture for themselves.

Tim Franks hails from the West Coast, California and Colorado. He graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 2005 and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2009. He married his wife Alicia in 2010. Tim and Alicia adopted Michael, Marlayna, and Maicee in 2020. He previously served in student ministry in Phoenix, AZ and Wilson, NC. He began serving at Eureka Bible Church as Associate Pastor in July 2017. Pastor Tim is an avid reader, loves watching and playing sports, and traveling to new places (especially historical sites).

Natalie Lett serves as student ministry coordinator at Church of the Cross in Birmingham, AL. She is a graduate of University of Alabama and holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Wake Forest University.

Tracy Yi is a mom of 3 and has served alongside her husband, Kevin, in youth ministry for over 16 years. She and Kevin now serve college and young adults ministry at Church Everyday in Southern California.

Timestamps:

[0:00] Welcome and Intro- Danny and Chelsea

[3:49] Best New Books for Parents - Tracy

[10:08] Best New Books for Youth Workers- Tim

[19:32] Best New Books for Teenagers- Natalie

[30:05] Best New Books for Bible Teaching-Chelsea

[44:30] Books from Rooted

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Intergenerational Integration

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Kerry Trunfio, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Closing out this series on overcoming disappointments in youth ministry, Danny talks with Kerry Trunfio, the Director of Children, Youth, and Family Life Ministry at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Topsfield, MA. Listen in as Kerry shares why she believes intergenerational integration to be an essential part of youth ministry, as well as some practical ideas for youth ministers who want to incorporate their students into the greater life of the church. Most especially, Kerry reminds us of how the gospel provides encouragement even in the midst of disappointing seasons where intergenerational integration doesn’t seem to be producing fruit.

Links:

Check out more Rooted resources on intergenerational integration here.
Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Partnering with Parents

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Jennifer Ting, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 5 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Jennifer Ting to discuss the importance of partnering with parents in youth ministry. Jennifer, a new mother and long-time youth pastor, is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Ministry to Emerging Generations from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Tune in to hear Jennifer and Danny discuss why parents are so vital in the discipleship of teenagers, practical ways youth ministers can incorporate parents into their ministries, and how the gospel provides hope and encouragement in the face of disappointing season with parents.

Resources:

Check out more Rooted resources on partnering with parents here.
Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Relational Discipleship

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Josh Newton, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 21:20:08 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Josh Newton, the Pastor of Student Ministries at The Orchard Evangelical Free Church in Barrington, Illinois to discuss the challenges and joys of engaging in relational discipleship with students. Danny and Josh discuss some practical ways youth leaders and volunteers can dig deeper into the lives of students, as well as offer gospel encouragement for youth ministers who feel disappointed with how they’ve navigated relational discipleship. Whether you are in a fruitful or frustrating season with relational discipleship, we hope you’ll be blessed by Danny and Josh’s wisdom in this episode.

Resources:

Check out more Rooted resources on relational discipleship here.
Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With a Lack of Theological Depth

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Stephen Yates, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 1 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Stephen Yates, the Assistant Pastor to Students at Intown Community Church in Atlanta, GA. Steve also is a visiting instructor at his alma mater, Covenant Theological Seminary and is currently working on his PhD in youth ministry. You’ll hear Danny and Steve discuss what it means to do theological depth well in youth ministry, as well as how youth pastors can apply their theological teaching to their own personal lives. Listeners will be encouraged with the reminder that even when some of our teaching seems to fall flat with students, God is still at work.

Resources:

Stephen's previous conversation on the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast
Check out more Rooted resources on relational discipleship here.
Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Gospel-Centrality in Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Mike McGarry, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000

How do you know if your ministry is gospel-centered? In this episode, Danny sits down with Mike McGarry, a former youth pastor and Director of Youth Pastor Theologian, to help answer that question. In today’s episode, Mike and Danny discuss the “nuts and bolts” of gospel-centered youth ministry and why it’s so important for our students. You’ll hear them share how youth ministers can trust the sufficiency of Jesus, even when they fail to do gospel-centered youth ministry perfectly.

Resources:

More resources on gospel-centered youth ministry here
Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!
Youth Pastor Theologian
Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide
Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers

Introducing: Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 20:48:53 +0000

Rooted introduces a new podcast focused on youth ministry in an Asian American context. It features a rotating panel of youth ministers who will talk about issues affecting Asian American youth and anyone ministering to them, whether in the home or in the church. This episode is a sample of what you will hear. The first full episode is available now at RootedMinistry.com/Podcasts. Or subscribe to the Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable wherever you listen to podcasts.

Bios of Panelists

Dorothy Lau

Dorothy is the youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland (Rockville, MD) in the Washington D.C. metropolitan. She is passionate to serve the Lord through discipleship, musical worship, administration, and multimedia. Dorothy is a massive foodie, enjoys cooking for loved ones, and delights in trips to her home city of Chicago.

Huey Lee

Huey Lee has been serving the local church in the youth ministry context for over 15 years, and holds a Masters of Divinity from Biblical Theological Seminary. He currently serves as a Pastor of Youth Ministry at Christ Central Presbyterian Church in Centreville, VA. He is married to his beautiful wife, Alice, and they are parents to 4 sons: Matthew, Ethan, Christian, and Lucas. He loves reading, Korean food, a good cup of coffee, and the growing pains that come with learning to play golf.

Justin Wong

Justin serves as the Pastor of Youth at Chinese Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. He has worked with students, parents, and families for the past 23 years. He graduated from Houston Baptist University with a biology degree and later received his Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently finishing his Masters of Theology and Doctorate of Education from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married Tina and they have two girls, Ella and Mia.

Terrence Shay

Terrence serves as the Family Pastor at First Chinese Baptist Church, Walnut, located in Los Angeles County with the largest Asian population in the US. He has grown up in the immigrant church and believes unashamedly in its role to fulfill Jesus’ call to make disciples across all cultures and generations. He is gladly married to Regina and forever growing as a father of three children from middle school to college. He will go out of his way to cheer on LA sports (Lakers, Dodgers, UCLA Bruins) and to engage in a meaningful conversation.

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Your Volunteers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Vince Greenwald, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 3 Sep 2024 20:12:18 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Vince Greenwald, the assistant pastor at Immanuel Church Nashville. Listen in as Danny and Vince discuss the joys and challenges of “equipping the saints for the work of ministry” with their youth volunteers. You’ll hear Vince explain how the truth of the gospel helps him navigate disappointments with youth volunteers, what he’s learned from his past mistakes, and about the importance of clear expectations with youth volunteers, all for the sake of better serving and loving the students in our ministries.

Resources:

Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!
Order Anxiety: Finding the Better Story by Liz Edrington today!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Your Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Cristobal Tong, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:36:46 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Cristobal Tong, the Lead English Pastor at 3Stone/NYCAC, where he ministers to youth and college students. Tong also serves as a Spiritual Life Advisor at NYU.

Sometimes the teenagers in our lives and ministries will disappoint us. In this episode, Cristobal and Danny discuss the joys, challenges, and everything in-between when it comes to working with teenagers. Listen in to hear them share stories about how they have handled disappointments with students in the past and how the grace of Jesus has met them in those places.

Resources:

Join us for our 2024 Conference in Dallas, TX!

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Your Senior Pastor and Senior Leadership

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Justin Wong) — Tue, 6 Aug 2024 20:37:07 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Justin Wong, the Pastor of Youth at Chinese Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. They discuss working and serving with Senior Pastors. Justin and Danny share the joys of the work, as well as offering ideas about how to overcome difficulties and disappointments.

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With the Parents of Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Josh Hussung) — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 20:31:20 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Josh Hussung, the Pastor of Youth and Families at Grace Community Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Josh and Danny discuss how to handle disappointments with the parents of the teenagers in their churches. They discuss how to serve these parents with love and grace, while navigating common difficulties and struggles.

Handling and Overcoming Disappointments in Youth Ministry: With Your Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Ericson Joubert, Danny Kwon) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 01:47:47 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Ericson Joubert, the Director of Student Ministries at East Cobb Presbyterian Church in Marietta, Georgia. From their past interactions with various youth pastors and their own experiences in youth ministry, they discuss how to handle and overcome disappointments with their churches. While Danny and Ericson love their churches, they also know that serving within a church context can present challenges.

Using Rooted’s Scope and Sequence Plan for Bible Teaching

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Rebecca Lankford, Isaiah Marshall, and Cameron Cole. Together, these four created and authored Rooted’s Scope and Sequence Plan to be used with Rooted’s curriculum. Keeping in mind Rooted’s pillar of theological depth, they discuss why having a scope and sequence plan is important and how it can benefit the teenagers in our youth ministries and churches. Don’t miss this special episode where you’ll hear the details about the two different plans that they created.

Resources:

Check out Rooted’s Scope and Sequence plan!

Ministering to Single-Parent Families: Perspectives from a Child and Youth Pastor

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Mac Harris, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 4 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny has a conversation with Mac Harris, a youth pastor in Charlotte, NC and the son of a single mom. He authored the last chapter of God’s Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single-Parent Families and the Churches that Seek to Love Them Well, a book written by his mother, Anna Meade Harris. In this interview, Mac discusses how the church can care for single parent families well. His words from these two angles offer rich advice and encouragement for youth ministries and the church, as we care for single-parent families.

Resources:

Ministering to Single-Parent Families: Perspectives from a Parent

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Anna Meade Harris, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 21 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Anna Meade Harris. She is author of God’s Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single-Parent Families and the Churches that Seek to Love Them Well. She also serves as Rooted’s Senior Director of Content. We discuss how the church can minister and care for single-parent families well. Her words from her experience as a single mom, as well as her interviews with others for her book, offer rich advice and encouragement for youth ministries and churches as we care for single-parent families.

Resources:

Rooted Mentorship Program
Purchase Anxiety: Finding the Better Story by Liz Edrington today.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: Working with Parents of Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Monica Kwon) — Tue, 7 May 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this 8th and final episode of the mini-season, husband and wife Danny and Monica Kwon talk about working with the parents of teenagers as it relates to the mental health issues of teenagers and their families. They speak from their experience dealing with the mental health issues of one of their own teenagers, but also as Danny spent 29 years serving as the youth pastor at one church, while Monica is both a psychologist and a Christian counselor. In speaking from these three distinct but overlapping perspectives, they discuss how youth ministry, youth pastors, and churches, can work with parents and their teenagers, to help them navigate the potential mental health issues of their teenagers.

Resources:

Purchase Anxiety: Finding the Better Story by Liz Edrington today.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: Social Media and the Youth Pastor with Justin Wong

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Justin Wong, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Danny sits down with veteran youth pastor Justin Wong. Justin serves as the Pastor of Youth at Chinese Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. He has worked with students, parents, and families for the past 24 years. He received his Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

They discuss how social media impacts teenagers and families from a youth pastor’s perspective. Justin talks about how social media can be harmful in different ways, how it impacts the mental health of a teenager, but also how it can be redeemed by a youth ministry that expresses the hope of the gospel in the lives of teenagers.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: Eating Disorders with Alice Churnock

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Alice Churnock, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 2 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Danny sits down with longtime friend of Rooted Alice Churnock. Alice is a licensed professional counselor specializing in adolescents and college students. She enjoys leading seminars for groups both nationally and internationally, and is married and has two young boys in Birmingham, AL.

They sit down to talk about the topic of eating disorders in teenagers. She offers deep insights into eating disorders of teenagers as a licensed professional counselor. Moreover, for churches and youth ministries, her insights offer help for churches and youth ministries, as they serve teenagers and their families, battling these issues.

Resources:

Purchase Anxiety: Finding the Better Story by Liz Edrington today.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: The Youth Pastor and the Anxious Teen with Brock Morgan

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Brock Morgan, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Danny sits down with longtime veteran Youth Pastor Brock Morgan. Brock is a popular speaker for retreats, conferences, and camps and has written twenty books including, Youth Ministry in a Post-Christian World and Beautiful Rebellion. Brock is the associate pastor at The Bridge Chino and lives in southern California with his wife Kelsey, their daughter Dancin and their puppy, C.S. Lewis.

They talk about teenage anxiety from a Youth Pastor’s perspective, including discussing Brock’s most recent book, The Anxious Teen. From the Youth Pastor’s perspective, they discuss the struggle of anxiety that is in the hearts and minds of today’s teenagers and how we might respond and be a part of bringing health and wholeness through the gospel and youth ministry. Brock also shares very intimately about his own struggles with anxiety.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: Anxiety with Liz Edrington

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Liz Edrington, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 5 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down with Liz Edrington. Danny and Liz talk about teenage anxiety from a counseling perspective for the church and youth ministry. As Liz has wide experience with youth and adult ministry, she offers a unique perspective on how the church and youth ministries can serve teenagers and families who struggle with anxiety. Liz is the author of a 31-day devotional for teenagers called Anxiety: Finding the Better Story (P&R Publishing, 2023).

Liz Edrington serves as the Fellowship Groups and Young Adults Director at North Shore Fellowship in Chattanooga, TN. She received her M.A. in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL, and she has worked with students in one form or another since 2002. She is an emeritus member of the Rooted steering committee.

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: The Role of the Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Monica Kwon, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Husband and wife Danny and Monica Kwon talk about the role of the church and the youth minister in helping struggling teenagers and their families as they navigate mental health issues. As a seasoned youth minister and a Christian counselor, respectively, they offer helpful insights and practical suggestions on serving teens and families who are dealing with mental health struggles.

Before joining Rooted, Danny was the youth and family pastor at his church for 29 years. Monica is both a Christian counselor and licensed psychologist (PhD) who has treated mental health issues of teenagers and their families in both a clinical setting, and in serving along Danny in youth ministry. In this new mini-series season on youth ministry and mental health, Danny and Monica hope to help the church, youth workers, and parents as they minister to teenagers in some of their mental health challenges. Various other guests will be appearing in this new mini-season.

Resources:

www.NAMI.org

Youth Ministry and Mental Health: Gospel Centrality

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Monica Kwon, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 6 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this second episode of the new mini-season of the RYMP, husband and wife Danny and Monica Kwon talk about gospel centrality as the foundation for dealing with the mental health issues of teenagers and their families. They speak from their experience dealing with the mental health issues of one of their own teenagers. Additionally, Danny spent 29 years serving as the youth pastor at one church, while Monica is both a psychologist and a Christian counselor. In speaking from these three distinct but overlapping perspectives, they admit their failures as leaders in the church, but also how they sought to apply the gospel as the foundation for their own family as well as in their service to teenagers and families dealing with mental health issues.

What Youth Workers Need to Know About Mental Health

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Monica Kwon, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this first episode of the new mini-season of the RYMP, husband and wife Danny and Monica Kwon talk about various aspects of youth ministry and the issue of mental health in the lives of teenagers. This was recorded at their Rooted 2023 Conference workshop. Before joining Rooted, Danny was the youth and family pastor at his church for 29 years. Monica is both a Christian counselor and licensed psychologist (PhD) who has treated mental health issues of teenagers and their families in both a clinical setting, and in serving along Danny in youth ministry. In this new mini-series season on youth ministry and mental health, Danny and Monica hope to help the church, youth workers, and parents as they minister to teenagers in some of their mental health challenges. Various other guests will be appearing in this new mini-season.

Hope and Perseverance in Youth Ministry: Gospel Centrality with Huey Lee

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Huey Lee, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 9 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Huey Lee, the longtime Youth Pastor at Christ Central Presbyterian Church in Northern Virginia and a member of Rooted’s Asian American Steering Committee. Together they reflect on hopes he has in youth ministry generally, as well as practical ways he strives to make the gospel central in youth ministry to his teenagers, parents, and ministry volunteers. Huey and Danny discuss aspects of persevering in youth ministry and some of the realities of serving teenagers, as well as how the gospel and its centrality help us continue in hope. Finally, he discusses personal ways he finds hope and perseveres in youth ministry.

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

“We want the gospel to not just be at the surface level but go deep into the little parts and areas of our lives and hearts.”

Hope and Perseverance in Youth Ministry: Theological Depth with Stephen Yates

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Stephen Yates) — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Stephen Yates, who serves as an Assistant Pastor to Families and Students at Intown Community Church in Atlanta, GA, and is a visiting instructor at his alma mater, Covenant Theological Seminary, and the PCA’s NEXT Institute. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Stephen talks about hopes in youth ministry as a practitioner. He shares hopeful and purposeful ways that theological depth is implemented in youth ministry with students and adult small group leaders. Stephen also talks about the difficulties in implementing theological depth for youth ministry and some hopeful solutions and ways to persevere to overcome them, as well as personal ways he perseveres in ministry.

“Students are much smarter than we have often given them credit for.”

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Mentoring and the Rooted Youth Pastor Mentoring Cohorts

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Travis Palmer, Dallas Knight, Emily Seibert, and Jamie Negus to discuss mentoring and their participation in the Rooted Youth Pastor Mentoring cohort. They discuss the valuable lessons and importance of mentoring, as well as the particular benefits and joys of the Rooted Youth Ministry Mentoring Cohorts were for them.

Quotes:

“A mentor to me has really critical to me as a human, but also me in youth ministry and as a youth director…. because a mentor outside of my specific context…has been really powerful for me…. because they are able to ask questions that people within the context wouldn’t be able to ask.” - Emily Seibert

“The mentorship for me…having someone as a seasoned person who has done it for a long time, to walk alongside you through…really helped with my mental health and support.” - Jamie Negus

"The one-on-one times [of the Rooted mentorship program], where you just bring things that have been really hard in ministry, or areas you knew you were just struggling…and have to just spend working through issues and programs…there’s not a number you can put on the value it put on our ministry here.” - Travis Palmer

“My biggest thing [about the Rooted mentoring program] is I knew I could go to my cohort or mentor with a problem, whether it was in an official meeting or a text, and just be like…can we talk…I am dealing with something here and I need someone else who is in this role to talk about it. And that’s why I would recommend [the Rooted mentoring program], because it gets you connected in ways that don’t naturally happen all the time.” - Dallas Knight

Links:

www.rootedministry.com/mentorship

Rooted’s 2023 Book Awards Show

Tue, 5 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Tracy Yi, Chelsea Erickson, Rebecca Lankford, and Tim Franks to discuss their selections for the 2023 Rooted Book Awards. The categories include best new books for youth ministers, parents, teenagers, and for Bible teaching.

Here are your 2023 Book Awards Panelists:

Chelsea Kingston Erickson

Chelsea is Editor of Youth Ministry Content and the Director of Publishing for Rooted. She previously served as a youth pastor in New England churches for 13 years. She and her husband, Steve, live north of Boston and are parents to Wells and Emmett. Chelsea holds an M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where she is currently pursuing a Master of Theology (Th.M.) in Old Testament Studies. She is passionate about teaching teenagers biblical theology and helping them learn to study Scripture for themselves.

Rebecca Lankford

Rebecca serves as the Ministry Development Coordinator/Assistant Editor for Rooted. Previously, she has worked in both youth and young adult ministries. She is a graduate of Furman University and recently completed her master’s in theology at Beeson Divinity School. Rebecca is happiest on a porch swing, in a boat, or on the dance floor.

Tim Franks

Tim hails from the West Coast, California and Colorado. He graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 2005 and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2009. He married his wife Alicia in 2010. Tim and Alicia adopted Michael, Marlayna, and Maicee in 2020. He previously served in student ministry in Phoenix, AZ and Wilson, NC. He began serving at Eureka Bible Church as Associate Pastor in July 2017. Pastor Tim is an avid reader, loves watching and playing sports, and traveling to new places (especially historical sites).

Tracy Yi

Tracy is a mom of 3 and has served alongside her husband, Kevin, in youth ministry for over 16 years and now serves college and young adults ministry at Church Everyday in Southern California.

Hope and Perseverance in Youth Ministry: Partnership with Parents with Matt Luchenbill

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Luchenbill, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Matt Luchenbill, the Students & Family Ministries Pastor at New City Presbyterian Church outside Detroit, MI, and the Director of the NextGen (Youth Ministry) Ministries of the Presbyterian Church of America (PCA) denomination. Matt talks about some whys and hows in partnering with parents. While these relationships can be both hopeful and difficult, partnering with parents is worth our perseverance.

“Ask questions, learn from parents. Take that humble perspective, that teachable perspective to seek understanding.”

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Hope and Perseverance in Youth Ministry: Intergenerational Integration with Emmie Thompson

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Emmie Thompson, Danny Kwon) — Wed, 8 Nov 2023 02:56:37 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Emmie Thompson, co-director of Middle School Ministry at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church on Lookout Mountain, TN and Adjunct Professor of Youth Ministry at Covenant College. Emmie reflects on different and distinct ways to promote intergenerational integration in youth ministry, not only adults to students, but older students to young students. Emmie also talks about investing in high school and college leaders, as well as adults, so her middle schoolers can benefit from these intergenerational relationships directly and indirectly. Finally, she speaks about the realities and difficulties in youth ministry and how to persevere through them.

“The high school volunteer and college volunteer piece is so important to us because it’s really showing middle schoolers what being a high school Christian looks like, and they see that being embodied.”

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Hope and Perseverance in Youth Ministry: Relational Discipleship with Syler Thomas

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Syler Thomas, Danny Kwon) — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny sits down to talk with Syler Thomas, who has been overseeing and leading the student ministries (along with other roles) at Christ Church in Lake Forest, Illinois since 1998. Syler been a frequent speaker at Rooted Conferences and serves on the Rooted Steering Committee and Parent Steering Committee. He talks about hope and perseverance in youth ministry in general and in terms of the realities of youth ministry in new seasons. He also talks about hope and perseverance in relational discipleship, along with how youth workers in ministry can nurture practices and rhythms to embrace a healthy, gospel-centered perspective, in order to thrive, survive, and persevere in ministry.

“I do think there is some sprinting that happens in the fall, but you have to keep in mind that it is a marathon. You are always looking at the big picture. And so caring for my soul becomes really important.”

Resources:

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Ask the Experts: Discovering the Value of Teenagers' Questions with Mike McGarry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Anna Meade Harris, Danny Kwon, Mike McGarry) — Tue, 3 Oct 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this joint episode with Anna Meade Harris, host of the Rooted Parent podcast, Danny Kwon welcomes Mike McGarry, author of a newly released book for teenagers, Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith. As a veteran youth worker, father and husband, Mike is no stranger to the difficult questions kids ask. In his book, Mike answers twenty tough questions with insight, compassion, and theological integrity. In our podcast, you'll hear him discuss how to make questions welcome in your home and ministry.

"When we shame kids for asking questions, we're making it more difficult for them emotionally to ask their questions."

Resources:

Join us at Rooted 2023 to hear Mike's workshop on teaching theology to teenagers.
Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith
Teenagers Need a Safe Place to Ask Hard Questions by Anna Meade Harris

Foundations of Youth Ministry: The Importance of Building Relationships, with Andrew King

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Andrew King, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Tucker sits down with Andrew King, the Youth and Family Pastor of Hope Community Church in Charlotte, NC, to talk about the importance of building relationships with students in youth ministry. Andrew has a wealth of practical insight to offer on one of Rooted's five pillars; press play to hear it!

"I am building trust, I am building a relationship, so that when things are difficult, I've become a person they can trust and can come to with harder questions."

Resources:

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN for workshops on relational discipleship.

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Intergenerational Integration with Isaiah Marshall

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Isaiah Marshall, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 5 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Tucker sits down to talk about Intergenerational Integration with Isaiah Marshall, the Director of Student Ministry at Strong Tower Bible Church in Nashville, TN. Isaiah talks about how to integrate students into the life of the local church, and how to integrate the local church into the lives of students. Press play to hear more!

"Young people co-laboring with older adults communicates that that young person has something of value to contribute."

Resources:

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Administrative Responsibilities in Youth Ministry with Terrence Shay

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Terrence Shay, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Tucker sits down with Terrence Shay, the Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut in Southern California, to talk about the administrative responsibilities of Youth Ministry. Click play to hear Terrence speak about the importance of administration and organization in ministry and how it serves the people you work with.

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Self Care and Soul Care with Becca Heck

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Becca Heck, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 1 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Tucker sits down with Becca Heck, a longtime youth worker from metro-Atlanta, to talk about the necessity of the youth pastor's care for their own soul. Since youth ministry is a profession prone to burnout, Becca talks to us about how we can not only avoid that, but also make sure we stay spiritually healthy for the long haul.

Resources:

Anxiety: Finding the Better Story, by Liz Edrington
Follow @therootedministry on Instagram
Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Practical Elements of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry with Skyler Flowers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Tucker Fleming, Skyler Flowers) — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Tucker sits down with Skyler Flowers, steering committee member and Assistant Pastor at Grace Bible Church in Oxford, Mississippi, to talk about what Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry looks like in the day-to-day life of a youth group. Click play to hear more!

Resources:

Gospel-Centered Resources at Rooted

Kendal Conner's Bible-Storying Talk on the Rooted Conference Podcast

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: The History of Youth Ministry with Danny Kwon

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Danny Kwon, Tucker Fleming) — Wed, 5 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Danny Kwon is a longtime Youth Pastor, college professor, and Senior Director of Youth Ministry Content and Cross Cultural Initiatives for Rooted, and in this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast he speaks with Tucker Fleming as part of our Foundations of Youth Ministry series about the history of youth ministry. If youth pastors struggle to understand the history of their field, it's difficult to move forward in a fruitful way. Hit play to hear Danny flesh out a timeline of the history of youth ministry and why it matters for youth pastors today.

Resources:

Rooted Resources on the History of Youth Ministry

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Teaching Theologically with Kyle Hoffsmith

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Kyle Hoffsmith, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Kyle Hoffsmith is the Pastor of Family Ministry at Old North Church in Canfield, OH, and in this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast he speaks with Tucker Fleming as part of our Foundations of Youth Ministry series about the benefits of teaching and preaching theologically. A hesitation for many when it comes to teaching theologically in a youth context is the concern that students won't be able to keep up. Hit play to hear Kyle flesh out why he teaches and preaches theologically, and why you should as well.
Resources:

Rooted Resources on Theological Depth

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Relational Discipleship

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Meredith Dixon, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 6 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Meredith Dixon hails from Savannah, GA, and studied Sociology at the University of North Georgia. Her deep desire to know, love and disciple students was sparked while serving middle schoolers at her home church. She served at East Cobb Presbyterian Church for about 5 years and now serves as the Youth Ministry Coordinator at Atlanta Westside Presbyterian Church. When not hanging out with students and their families, Meredith loves to peruse bookstores, read, listen to music, spend time with friends, hike in fall weather, and find new coffee shops. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies at Reformed Theological Seminary and serves on the PCA NextGen Committee. Listen in as she talks with Tucker about what relational discipleship is, why it's important, and how she prioritizes it in her ministry.

Resources:

Rooted Youth Ministry Resources

1 Thessalonians 2:8

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Bethlehem College

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Building a Philosophy of Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Tucker Fleming, Arek O'Connell) — Tue, 16 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Arek O'Connell is a California native who currently serves as an ordained high school and young adult youth pastor at Hillside Community Church in Grand Rapids, MI where he lives with his wife Jamie and two daughters. Arek holds an M. Div. from Western Theological Seminary, but he's still just a big kid at heart. Arek loves spending time with family and friends and will talk to you about football, specifically the Raiders, for hours if you want to. Join him as he chats with Tucker about building a philosophy of youth ministry to guide you for years of fruitful ministry.

Resources

Book Recommendation: Strange Rites, by Tara Isabella Burton

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Teaching Inductive Bible Study

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Tim Franks, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 2 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Tucker Fleming talks with Tim Franks, the Associate Pastor at Eureka Bible Church, about how to teach students to do inductive Bible study and how inductive Bible study can improve your own teaching and preaching.

Resources:

Rooted Resources on Bible Teaching

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

SOSMemphis.org

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Partnering with Parents, with Vince Greenwald

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Vince Greenwald, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Tucker Fleming talks with Vince Greenwald, the student minister at Immanuel Nashville, about how youth ministers can work with parents to bring students closer to Jesus.

Resources:

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Building a Strong Volunteer Base with Syler Thomas

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Syler Thomas, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Syler Thomas is a native Texan who has been the student ministries pastor at Christ Church in Lake Forest, Illinois, since 1998. He writes a column for YouthWorker Journal, has had articles published in Leadership Journal and the Chicago Tribune, and is the co-author of two books. Syler and his wife, Heidi, have four kids. Today, he sits down with Tucker Fleming for another installment of our Foundations of Youth Ministry series to chat about the importance of volunteers in youth ministry. Hit play to hear more about it!
Resources:

Rooted Resources on Volunteers

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Foundations of Youth Ministry: Biblical Teaching Book by Book with Steve Yates

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Stephen Yates, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Steve Yates is the Pastor of Students and Families at Intown Community Church in Atlanta, GA, and in this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast he speaks with Tucker Fleming as part of our Foundations of Youth Ministry series about the benefits of teaching through whole books of the Bible without losing some of the benefits of topical teaching. Hit play to hear Steve flesh out why he teaches book by book and how he does so in a way that applies the truth of Scripture to our cultural moment.

Resources:

Rooted Resources for Biblical Teaching

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

What College Students Wish They Had Received In Their High School Youth Ministries

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Anthony Bradley, Cameron Cole) — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Dr. Anthony Bradley teaches theology at Kings' College, and in this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry podcast he speaks with Cameron Cole about what he hears from the college freshmen he teaches. Tune in to hear what Bradley's students have to say about Biblical literacy and intergenerational integration. You'll also want to listen for what teenagers really think about hanging out with adults (hint: you might learn something unexpected).

Anthony Bradley is Professor of Religious Studies, The King’s College.

Talk to Your Kids about Failure – and Share Stories from Your Life by Kari Kampakis

Don’t Banish Your Students to the Kids’ Table by Dan Montgomery

Rooted Resources for Integrating Students Into the Life of Your Church

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram

Join us for our 2023 conference in Nashville, TN!

Partnering with Parents to Raise Race-Wise Teens With Dr. Michelle Reyes

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Michelle Reyes, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Dr. Michelle Reyes, co-author of The Race-Wise Family: Ten Postures to Becoming Households of Healing and Hope, shares what it means to be "race-wise" (and why it matters to God). Helpfully differentiating between gospel-centered multi-ethnicity and unhelpful, un-scriptural ideologies, Dr. Reyes then shares about how youth workers can partner with parents to equip and encourage families in the work of raising race-wise teenagers. As you discuss race and ethnicity with the teenagers you serve, you won't want to miss this invaluable resource.

Resources:

Rooted Recommends: The Race-Wise Family

Fear Factor: Fear of Talking with Our Children About Race with Dr. Michelle Reyes

Cultivating Spaces That Are Safe From Racism in Youth Ministry

How Youth Workers can Care for Ministry Kids

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Katie Polski, Chris Polski) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

As parents who both serve on the staff of a local church, Chris and Katie Polski are aware of the unique challenges which press upon the children of vocational ministry leaders. In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, the Polskis help youth workers understand these challenges, as well as the opportunities to provide meaningful shepherding and care to ministry kids. Full of both grace and truth, this episode will help youth workers become advocates and allies to the ministry kids they serve!

Links:

Chris & Katie Polski

Rooted Reservoir

Rooted Conference

Creative Communication in Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Isaiah Marshall, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Isaiah Marshall joins the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast to share about his passion for creative communication. Drawing from his experiences as a youth minister, Isaiah shares how creative gospel communication empowers all sorts of students to recognize their gifts and utilize their abilities to minister to the body of Christ. Far from being "gimmicky," Isaiah gives listeners a vision for how creative communication techniques can develop leaders and proclaim the gospel message far and wide!

Links:

Strong Tower Bible Church

Isaiah on Instagram

Rooted Conference

Rooted Reservoir

Rooted’s 2022 Book Awards Show

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast features the reviewers of each category of Rooted’s 2022 Book Awards: Chelsea Erickson (Best New Books to Talk About with Teenagers), Tucker Fleming (Best New Books for Teenagers), Davis Lacey (Best New Books for Youth Workers), and Tracy Yi (Best New Books for Parents). Listen to hear the honorable mentions, as well as the award recipients, of the 2022 Rooted Book Awards!

The Awards!

Follow these links to learn more about the 2022 Book Award Winners

Recommendations from Anna Meade Harris, Rooted’s Senior Director of Content

You're Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God's Design and Why That's Good News by Kelly Kapic

Everything Sad Is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri

BEST NEW BOOKS FOR PARENTS:

Honorable Mention: Humble Moms: How the Work of Christ Sustains the Work of Motherhood by Kristen Wetherell.
Winners:
- Special Grace, Prayers and Reflections for Families with Special Needs by Elrena Evans
- Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build on for Life by David Thomas

BEST NEW BOOKS FOR TEENAGERS:

Honorable Mentions:
- Who Am I and Why Do I Matter? by Chris Morphew
- Alongside Jesus: Devotions for Teenagers by Drew Hill
Winner: Read This First: A Simple Guide to Getting the Most from the Bible by Gary Millar

BEST NEW BOOKS TO TALK ABOUT WITH TEENAGERS:

Honorable Mentions:
- Faithfully Different: Regaining Biblical Clarity in a Secular Culture by Natasha Crain
- Terms of Service: The Real Cost of Social Media by Chris Martin
- Cultural Counterfeits: Confronting 5 Empty Promises of Our Age and How We Were Made for So Much More by Jen Oshman
Winner: Jesus Through the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the Lord by Rebecca McLaughlin

BEST NEW BOOKS FOR YOUTH WORKERS:

Honorable Mention:
- Spurgeon the Pastor: Recovering a Biblical and Theological Vision for Ministry by Geoffrey Chang
- Understanding Family Worship: Its History, Theology and Practiceby Terry L. Johnson
Winner: Authentic Ministry: Serving from the Heartby Michael Reeves

How Youth Ministers can Handle Conflict with Senior Leadership

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Chris Polski, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 8 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Rev. Chris Polski has decades of experience as both a youth minister and as a senior pastor. On this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Chris joins Davis and draws on this extensive experience to coach youth ministers on how to handle conflict-situations with members of their churches' senior leadership teams. What are helpful ways to deal with conflict? What approaches are detrimental? And how is the good news of the gospel pervasive, even in tough situations such as these? These questions and others are addressed with frankness and hope on this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast!

Additional Resources

Chris Polski's Rooted Author Page
"Intergenerational Integration Begins with Ministry Staff"
"Five Questions for Conflict Resolution in Student Ministry"
Learn more about Chris' ministry by visiting https://trinitychurchkirkwood.org

Teaching Christ Out of Every Book of the Bible (with Seth Stewart)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Seth Stewart, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000

One of Rooted's five pillars is theological depth through biblical exposition. Anyone who has taught teenagers understands that this aspiration is easier to affirm than it is to apply! How can a youth minister teach the tough truths of Scripture in a sensitive and engaging way to teenagers? Seth Stewart, Editor in Chief of Spoken Gospel, joins the podcast to discuss these very topics!

Additional Resources:

Be sure to check out Rooted's grace-filled, gospel-centered, Bible-saturated discipleship curricula at rootedreservoir.com!
Spoken Gospel: https://www.spokengospel.com
"7 Ways to See Jesus in the Royal and Wisdom Psalms" - https://rootedministry.com/7-ways-to-see-jesus-in-the-royal-and-wisdom-psalms/

The Importance of Seminary to Youth Ministers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Mac Harris) — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Davis is joined by Mac Harris, a current seminary student, and the youth and family ministries coordinator for Hope Community Church in Charlotte, NC. Mac shares some of the most impactful things he is learning in seminary, and how those insights have directly benefited his ministry to young people. He also provides fresh insights on how youth workers can determine whether or not seminary is a wise investment (of time and of money) and encourages churches to partner with youth workers as they pursue ministry development.

Additional Resources

Jump-start your ministry development using the resources available at https://www.rootedreservoir.com
Chelsea Erickson, "Youth Ministers - Yes, You Should Consider an M.Div. (and Here's Why)"
Melanie Lacy, "Youth Ministry in Spite of Formal Training"

Mac Harris on Teaching Romans to Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Mac Harris, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Rooted Reservoir launched a new Romans curriculum over the summer, and on today's episode, the author (Mac Harris) joins us for a conversation about teaching the Book of Romans to teenagers. Mac provides a summary of the theme(s) of Romans, as well as a list of resources he found helpful in writing the curriculum. Moreover, he provides youth workers with the encouragement that the real power in teaching the Bible isn't in the youth worker's skill or eloquence - but rather in the power of God!

Additional Resources

Rooted Reservoir (rootedreservoir.com)
Romans for You by Tim Keller (chs. 1-7, and chs. 8-16)
Douglas Moo's commentary on Romans - https://www.christianbook.com/romans-second-edition-international-commentary-testament/douglas-moo/9780802871213/pd/871216
The Message of Romans by John Stott (https://www.christianbook.com/the-message-romans-bible-speaks-today/john-stott/9780830812462/pd/12460)

Youth Ministry Wisdom from Charlotte Getz

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Charlotte Getz) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Charlotte Getz has tirelessly served youth ministers through her faithful ministry at Rooted - both as our editor in chief and as our director of publishing projects. As Charlotte transitions out of her formal involvement with Rooted, we at The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast wanted to honor Charlotte for her service. We also wanted to learn from her personal experience as a youth minister. Tune-in to this episode to hear Charlotte discuss the importance of "showing up," the value of meaningful female-male ministry partnerships, the significance trips can play in a teenager's spiritual development, and more!

Additional Resources

"Youth Minister, Show Up for That Soccer Game" - https://rootedministry.com/blog/youth-minister-show-up-for-that-soccer-game/
"Planning Retreats with a Goal in Mind: Four Gospel-Fruits of Getting Away" - https://rootedministry.com/blog/planning-retreats-goal-mind-four-gospel-fruits-getting-away/
Charlotte's 2021 Conference Plenary, "Can These Bones Live?" - https://rootedministry.com/podcast/rooted-conference-charlotte-getz-can-these-bones-live/

Why Youth Ministry Mentorship Matters to Tucker Fleming

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Tucker Fleming) — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000

On today's episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Director of Ministry Development Tucker Fleming discusses how mentorship was crucial to his development as a youth minister. Listeners will be encouraged to seek mentorship for themselves and will also be provided with some helpful tools to initiate the process with potential mentors.

Additional Resources:

Email Tucker at tucker@rootedministry.com
"How to Survive and Thrive in Your First Youth Ministry Job" - https://rootedministry.com/blog/how-to-survive-and-thrive-in-your-first-youth-ministry-job/

A Tool to Help Overwhelmed Youth Ministers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Tucker Fleming, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 9 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000

As the "dog days" of Summer give way to the beginning of new school years, many youth workers feel like "tired puppies." In this episode, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development, Tucker Fleming, shares how Rooted Reservoir can be of service to overwhelmed youth workers. In this concise episode, you'll hear about how Rooted Reservoir does more than alleviate the time crunches which often appear on a youth minister's calendar. Rooted Reservoir also provides unique opportunities to nourish the hearts of youth workers through the gospel of grace.

Additional Resources:

Learn more about Rooted Reservoir by visiting https://www.rootedreservoir.com
Tucker Fleming's author page: https://rootedministry.com/author/tucker-fleming/

From Frustrating to Fruitful: Vince Greenwald on Middle School Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Vince Greenwald) — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000

On today's episode, Vince Greenwald (Student Ministry Director at Immanuel Church Nashville) previews the workshop he will be leading at Rooted's 2022 Conference: "From Frustrating to Fruitful: Hope for your Middle School Ministry." Vince spends time talking about what sets middle school ministry apart as particularly difficult and challenging, but not without also shedding light on the incredible hope and opportunity that accompany ministry to students in these tender years of life. Finally, he outlines some practical points of guidance for middle school ministry practitioners. If you know and love middle school students - you won't want to miss this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast!

Additional Resources

Immanuel's definition of the gospel: "God’s love for sinners through the finished work of Christ and the unlimited power of the Holy Spirit."

Kendal Conner on Kansas City and Sharing the Gospel with Generation Z

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Kendal Conner, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Kendal Conner is a former Rooted steering committee member and will be featured at this year's Rooted Conference as both a plenary speaker and a workshop leader. She joins the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast to give us the inside scoop on the best places to eat and hang out in Kansas City (this year's conference site). She also spends some time describing why Generation Z is classified as a "Post-Christian" generation, as well as sharing the unique challenges and opportunities of sharing the gospel with this generation of students.

In addition to listening to this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, you won't want to miss Kendal's workshop at the 2022 Rooted Conference: "Teaching the Scriptures to a Post-Christian Generation."

Additional Resources

Rooted's 2022 Conference will be held Oct. 6-8 in Kansas City. To learn more about the conference, and to register, visit https://www.rooted-conference.com.

Learn more about Meet Generation Z by James Emery White by visiting http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/meet-generation-z/382100.

Read more about "Bible Storying" in this Rooted article by Kendal Conner: https://rootedministry.com/blog/bible-storying-in-a-post-christian-generation/

Relational Discipleship during the Summer Months

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Kevin Yi, Clark Fobes, Mike McGarry) — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000

On today's episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, the hosts of Rooted's Thanos to Theos (Clark Fobes, Mike McGarry, and Kevin Yi) discuss how youth ministry is different during the summer months, as well as strategies for effectively shepherding students during hectic rhythms, lethargic rhythms, and rhythms in-between! They also spend time talking through the youth minister's self-care during the summer - and, of course, plugging the awesome content curated by Thanos to Theos!

Additional Resources

Thanos to Theos: https://rootedministry.com/podcast/series/thanos-to-theos/

The Asian American Christian Collaborative: https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com

Youth Pastor Theologian: https://www.youthpastortheologian.com

Youth Ministry During Pride Month (A Conversation with Stephen Yates)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Stephen Yates, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Throughout the month of June, as many around the country and around the world commemorate Pride Month, youth ministry practitioners are considering how to speak out and serve in grace-filled, gospel-centered, Bible-saturated ways. Today's guest, Stephen Yates, highlights a number of resources that will help youth workers do exactly that.

Additional Resources

Stephen's Rooted Author Page: https://rootedministry.com/author/stephen-yates/
The Center for Parent/Youth Understanding: https://cpyu.org
Brene Brown: https://brenebrown.com
Creation Regained: https://www.eerdmans.com/Products/2969/creation-regained.aspx
Dr. Mark Yarhouse/The Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com/about/leadership/dr-mark-yarhouse
Sam Allberry's resource page at The Gospel Coalition: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/profile/sam-allberry/
Jackie Hill Perry: https://jackiehillperry.com
Preston Sprinkle: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com
Rosaria Butterfield: https://rosariabutterfield.com

Summertime Opportunities for Intergenerational Integration

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Cam Potts, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 31 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000

One of Rooted’s five pillars is intergenerational integration: “not segregating students from the church body but including them among all of the generations of the church.” Cam Potts joins The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast to outline the importance of this ministry distinctive from a biblical and gospel-centered perspective. He also gives plenty of practical advice on how to take advantage of summertime rhythms to take the first step or the next step towards integrating the teenagers in your church into the body of Christ at large.

Additional Resources:

Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, edited by Cameron Cole and Jon Nielson

Faith that Lasts by Jon Nielson

Practical Family Ministry by Timothy Paul Jones

Access other Rooted resources written about intergenerational integration here: https://rootedministry.com/?tag=intergenerational-integration&post_types=&author_id=&s=

Mental Health Awareness Month (with Scott Box)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Scott Box) — Tue, 10 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Show Notes:
To learn more about Scott's ministry, and to purchase a copy of Heroic Disgrace, visit https://heroicdisgrace.com/

Dealing With the Shame of Depression by Clark Fobes

Where Will Weary Teenagers Find Rest, If Not at Youth Group? by Cameron Cole
Parenting A Child With Major Depressive Disorder by Ingram Link
Student Series: What Students Need from You During Seasons of Mental Illness by Emily Jenkins

The Hide & Seek of Coping Mechanisms by Liz Edrington
With teen mental health deteriorating over five years, there’s a likely culprit by Jean Twenge

Mental Health and Generation Z by Dallas Theological Seminary

'Deceived No More:' A Conversation About the New Age with Doreen Virtue

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Doreen Virtue, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources

Doreen's book Deceived No More: How Jesus Led Me Out of the New Age and Into His Word (https://www.thomasnelson.com/9780785234227/deceived-no-more/).

Doreen's Instagram Handle: @doreenvirtu
John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress (https://document.desiringgod.org/the-pilgrim-s-progress-en.pdf?ts=1446648353)
Truth for Life, the ministry of Alistair Begg: https://www.truthforlife.org

In this interview, Doreen exhorts Christ-followers to avoid Yoga and The Enneagram. For the counter-perspectives of other Bible-believing Christians in relation to these topics, please refer to the following resources:

"The Gospel Story and our Cultural Practies: An Interview with James K.A. Smith" (second question) - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/the-gospel-story-and-our-cultural-practices-an-interview-with-james-k-a-smith/
"Ask Alice: The Gospel and the Enneagram (an Interview with John Fooshee)" - https://rootedministry.com/podcast/ask-alice-the-gospel-and-the-enneagram-an-interview-with-john-fooshee-part-1/

"Little Easters" with Robert Row

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Robert Row) — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Show Notes
seeJesus Student Ministry Website
Jimmy Davis, Cruciform: Living the Cross-Shaped Life
Trevor Hudson, Discovering our Spiritual Identity
Paul Miller's "The Love Course" lectures
Paul Miller, J-Curve: Dying and Rising with Jesus in Everyday Life
Gospel Harmony (Thomas and Gundry, eds.)

Why Youth Ministry and Youth Ministers Matter to Dr. Moore

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Russell Moore) — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources

Dr. Moore's The Courage to Stand: Facing Your Fear without Losing Your Soul (https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Stand-Facing-without-Losing/dp/1535998539)
Dr. Moore on "Teaching Students to have Gospel-Formed Consciousness" (https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/rooted-podcast-dr-russell-moore-on-teaching-students-to-have-gospel-formed-consciousnesses/)
Dr. Moore on Comics and Culture (https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/episode-28-russell-moore-on-comics-culture/)

2019 The Gospel Coalition Conference in Indianapolis

Teaching Students about the Integration of Faith and Work (with Robby Holt)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Robby Holt) — Tue, 8 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Resources Mentioned:

Chattanooga Institute for Faith, Work, and Culture

Genesis chapters 1 and 2

Every Good Endeavor, by Dr. Tim Keller

Colossians 1:13-20

LAUNCH Chattanooga

Rooted Conference

Relational Discipleship: A Conversation with Sedrick Moore

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Sedrick Moore) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources:

Birmingham Urban Young Life’s website: https://bhamurbaneast.younglife.org

Youth Ministry Q&A with Cameron Cole, Sedrick Moore, Rebecca Heck, and Kevin Yi

Dean Inserra’s The Unsaved Christian: Reaching Cultural Christianity with the Gospel

A Student’s Guide to Justification (Book Talk with Author Greg Meyer)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Greg Meyer) — Tue, 8 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources:

Greg Meyer’s author page: https://www.rootedministry.com/author/greg-meyer/

Greg’s website: https://gs-meyer.com

Purchase A Student’s Guide to Justification at https://www.amazon.com/Track-Justification-Students-Guide-Doctrine/dp/1527108058

Learn more about the Track series at https://www.christianfocus.com/series/167/track

"Five Quotes from ‘A Student’s Guide to Justification’” - https://www.rootedministry.com/blog/five-quotes-from-a-students-guide-to-justification/

For more resources on justification, visit https://www.rootedministry.com/?tag=&post_types=&author_id=&s=justification

How to Talk with Teenagers about Race

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Ben Sciacca, Sho Baraka) — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Ben Sciacca, author of the book Meals from Mars: A Parable of Prejudice and Providence, serves as the Director of Leadership Development at Desire Street Ministries.

Sho Baraka, author of He Saw That It Was Good: Reimagining Your Creative Life to Repair a Broken World, wrote the afterword for Meals from Mars. He is a founding member of the 116 Clique and Record Label, as well as a co-founder of the AND Campaign.

Additional Resources:

Use this link to purchase a copy of Meals from Mars at a 35% discount (with passcode ROOTED) - https://www.navpress.com/p/meals-from-mars/9781631465444

He Saw That It Was Good - https://www.amazon.com/Saw-That-Was-Good-Reimagining-ebook/dp/B08FHBS87M

The AND Campaign - https://www.andcampaign.org

Sho’s album The Narrative - https://open.spotify.com/album/5BsScM9mlXSIhGsUwy8Yiv

Rebecca McLaughlin’s books - https://www.rebeccamclaughlin.org/confronting-christianity

Under Our Skin by Benjamin Watson - https://www.amazon.com/Under-Our-Skin-Getting-Frustrations/dp/149641330X

Desire Street Ministries - https://desirestreet.org

Ben Sciacca’s “Dr. Martin Luther King and the Mud in Our Eyes” - https://www.rootedministry.com/blog/dr-martin-luther-king-and-the-mud-in-our-eyes/

Doreena Williamson on the Importance of Celebrating Black History Month (with Non-Black Students) - https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/rooted-podcast-dorena-williamson-on-the-importance-of-celebrating-black-history-month-with-non-black-students/

Back to Basics with Brian Dye

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Brian Dye) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources:

Brian is the founder of Legacy Disciple - a ministry which exists to encourage, equip, and empower everyday Christians to be disciples of Christ who make disciples for Christ. Learn more by visiting https://legacydisciple.org.

Brian Dye’s Plenary for Rooted’s 2019 Conference: https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/rooted-podcast-rooted-podcast-brian-dye-on-the-lamb-the-rabbi-and-the-christ/

Rooted’s 2021 Book Awards

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Tracy Yi, Anna Meade Harris, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Without further ado - here are the winners and honorable mentions of Rooted’s 2021 Book Awards. Happy reading!

Books for Teenagers Award Winners

Honorable Mentions

Brave, A Young Girl’s Guide to Beating Worry and Anxiety by Sissy Goff, Baker Publishing Group.

Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College by Michael Kruger, Crossway. (review on Rooted)

Winner

10 Questions Every Kid Should Ask (and Answer) about Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin, Crossway. (Review on Rooted; companion book for adults Confronting Christianity reviewed here.)

Parenting Award Winners

Honorable Mentions

Prayers for a Parent series by Kathleen Nielsen: Young Children, Teens, Young Adults, Adult Children, P&R Publishing. (Rooted review here.)

Winner

Forming Resilient Children: The Role of Spiritual Formation for Healthy Development by Holly Catterton Allen, IVP.

Youth Ministry Award Winners

Honorable Mentions

Searching For Grace: A Weary Leader, A Wise Mentor, and Seven Healing Conversations for a Parched Soul by Scotty Smith and Russ Masterson, Tyndale Momentum.

Five Views on the Future of Youth Ministry: Perspectives on What Could or Should Be edited by Mark Ostreicher, Youth Cartel.

Winner

Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers by Mike McGarry, New Growth Press. (Rooted review here.)

Challenging Life Issues Award Winners

Honorable Mentions

Talking With Teens About Sexuality: Critical Conversations About Social Media, Gender Identity, Same-Sex Attraction, Pornography, Purity, Dating, Etc. by Beth Robinson and Latayne C. Scott.

What God Has to Say About Our Bodies: How the Gospel Is Good News for our Physical Selves by Sam Allberry, Crossway. (Rooted review here.)

Breaking Free From Body Shame: Dare to reclaim What God Has Named Good by Jess Connolly

Table for Two: Biblical Counsel for Eating Disorders by David and Krista Dunham, New Growth Press. (Rooted review here.)

Winner

A Small Book About Why We Hide: How Jesus Rescues Us From Insecurity, Regret, Failure and Shame by Ed Welch, New Growth Press.

One Final Highlight

Although we did not consider this book for any Rooted Award so as to avoid a conflict of interest, we’d be remiss not to highlight

The Jesus I Wish I Knew In High School

edited by Rooted’s own Charlotte Getz and Cameron Cole. Hear more from some of the book’s authors in this live interview panel.

Why Youth Workers Need Rest (and How to Take It!)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Clark Fobes) — Thu, 9 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Additional Resources:

Spurgeon’s Sorrows: Realistic Hope for those who Suffer from Depression, by Zack Eswine (Christian Focus, 2015)

The Imperfect Pastor: Discoering Joy through our Limitations through a Daily Apprenticeship with Jesus, by Zack Eswine (Crossway, 2015)

Zeal Without Burnout: Seven Keys to a Lifelong Ministry of Selfless Sacrifice, by Christopher Ash (Good Book Company, 2016)

Cyber Monday Special: 'The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School' Authors’ Panel

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Order the book here

Cameron Cole (co-editor and author, Chapter 2, “Performance and Acceptance”) is Rooted’s Chairman, as well as the Director of Children, Youth, and Family at The Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham, AL.

Charlotte Getz (co-editor and author, Chapter 7, “Dreams and the Real Story”) currently serves as the Director of Publishing Projects at Rooted.

Sandra McCracken (author, Chapter 8, “Approval and God’s Voice”) is a highly-acclaimed singer-songwriter and hymn writer from Nashville, Tennessee.

Clark Fobes (author, Chapter 30, “Isolation and Liberation”) is an associate pastor of First Baptist Church, San Francisco, CA.

Kevin Yi (author, Chapter 18, “Shame and Holiness”) is Rooted’s Video Producer, as well as the college and young adults pastor at Church Everyday in Northridge, CA.

Davis Lacey (author, Chapter 24, “Secrets and Mercy”) is Rooted’s Podcast Producer, as well as the Lead Planter and Pastor of Autumn Ridge Community Church in Ellijay, GA.

Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry from Scratch: An Interview with Ethan Wormell

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 9 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Additional resources:

"What Does Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry Actually Look Like?" (A Conversation with Arek O'Connell): https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/what-does-gospel-centered-youth-ministry-actually-look-like-a-conversation-with-arek-oconnell/

"Youth Ministry Q&A with Cameron Cole, Sedrick Moore, Rebecca Heck, and Kevin Yi: Rooted 2020 Conference"

https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/youth-ministry-qa-with-cameron-cole-sedrick-moore-rebecca-heck-and-kevin-yi-rooted-2020-conference/
"Dear Brand New Youth Minister:" https://www.rootedministry.com/blog/dear-brand-new-youth-minister/

Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers: https://newgrowthpress.com/lead-them-to-jesus-a-handbook-for-youth-workers/

Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide: https://www.crossway.org/books/gospel-centered-youth-ministry-tpb/

Cameron Cole and the Jesus He Wishes He Knew in High School

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Cameron Cole) — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School, edited by Cameron Cole and Charlotte Getz

Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths that Comfort, Sustain and Redeem in Tragedy, by Cameron Cole

Doing Youth Ministry in Church Plants and Small Churches

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Creston Thomas, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Learn more about Creston Thomas and Christ the Redeemer Church here: https://ctrc.church/leadership

Learn more about Autumn Ridge Community Church at www.AutumnRidgeCommunityChurch.com

The Community Bible Reading Journal: https://www.thecbrjournal.com

Learn more about Rooted Reservoir by visiting https://www.rootedreservoir.com/

Learn more about Rooted Regional Groups: https://www.rootedreservoir.com/regionalgroups

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: https://www.thejesusiwishiknewinhighschool.com

Dave Harvey on Helping Students Who Feel Called to Vocational Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Dave harvey, davis lacey, rooted ministry) — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:43:36 +0000

Also see Harvey's book Rescuing Ambition

The Great Commission Collective: https://gccollective.org/

"Recalibrating Your Ministry Ambition" by Greg Meyer: https://www.rootedministry.com/blog/recalibrating-your-ministry-ambition/

Sam Allberry on Singleness in the Teenage Years

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Sam Allberry, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 7 Sep 2021 11:00:00 +0000

“[If] everyone is either married or lonely, it doesn’t matter how brilliantly you teach the Bible’s sexual ethic. It’s not going to be plausible.”

“Whenever there’s a negative in the Bible, the question is, ‘What’s the bigger positive that negative is protecting?’”

Sam Allberry, Seven Myths About Singleness

www.samallberry.com

Pre-Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School

What Does Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry Actually Look Like? (A Conversation with Arek O'Connell)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Arek O'Connell, Davis Lacey) — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Arek's Rooted Author Page: https://www.rootedministry.com/author/arek-oconnell/

David Choi's 2018 Conference Talk: https://www.rootedministry.com/podcast/rooted-podcast-dave-choi-on-beholding-the-glory-of-god/

Dr. Bryan Chapell: Redeeming the Expository Sermon (in Youth Ministry)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:09:49 +0000

Dr. Bryan Chapell joins host Davis Lacey to talk about preaching and teaching the Bible to students in a gospel-centered way. Sharing insights from his book, "Christ-Centered Preaching: Redeeming the Expository Sermon," Dr. Chapell shares ways to engage listeners' short attention spans while preaching Christ from all parts of Scripture. He also gives encouragement to youth ministry practitioners who may feel pressure to teach moralism, or to simply host "pizza parties with a purpose." We hope you'll benefit from this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Michael Kruger on "Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College"

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Michael Kruger, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 8 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Michael Kruger who serves as the President and Samuel C. Patterson Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at the Charlotte campus of Reformed Theological Seminary. He shares from his latest book, "Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College", which addresses common objections to the Christian faith—the exclusivity of Christianity, Christian intolerance, homosexuality, hell, the problem of evil, science, miracles, and the reliability of the Bible.

As youth workers, we know the challenges that many of our students will face after high school, and so we hope that this conversation will equip you to help your students engage secular challenges with intellectual honesty, compassion, and confidence—and ultimately graduate college with their faith intact.

Brett McCracken on "The Wisdom Pyramid:Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World"

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Brett McCracken) — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, author Brett McCracken shares that newest book, "The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World," was written with his own children in mind. Youth ministers will themselves be encouraged, but will also find answers to some pressing questions such as, "How is our social-media age disproportionately impacting young people?", "How can I help teenagers grow in wisdom?", and, "How can I explain to parents what's really going on as their teen interacts on social media?" Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Scott Sauls on "A Gentle Answer" and How to Teach Teens to Live Counter-Culturally

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Thu, 20 May 2021 16:15:26 +0000

Engaging Disability with the Gospel with Ashley Belknap

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Ashley Belknap, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 8 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

More from the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast:

Youth Ministry Q&A with Cameron Cole, Sedrick Moore, Rebecca Heck, and Kevin Yi: Rooted 2020 Conference

The Youth Ministry Discipleship Opportunity that COVID-19 Has Brought with Cameron Cole and Rebecca Lankford: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

Engaging Disability:

Learn more about Engaging Disability by visiting their website!

View resources provided by Engaging Disability here.

Youth Ministry Q&A with Cameron Cole, Sedrick Moore, Rebecca Heck, and Kevin Yi: Rooted 2020 Conference

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Sedrick Moore, Rebecca Heck, Kevin Yi, Cameron Cole) — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Lessons on Youth Ministry in the Asian-American Context with Peter Ong, Clark Fobes, and Kevin Yi: Rooted 2020 Conference

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Peter Ong, Kevin Yi, Clark Forbes) — Tue, 9 Mar 2021 13:00:00 +0000

The Youth Ministry Discipleship Opportunity that COVID-19 Has Brought with Cameron Cole and Rebecca Lankford: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Cameron Cole, Rebecca Lankford) — Tue, 2 Mar 2021 13:00:00 +0000

The Important Skill Your Students Need: How to Love God Through Studying His Word with Chelsea Kingston Erickson: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Chelsea Kingston Erickson) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:18:50 +0000

Grace in Lonely Places with Kevin Yi: Rooted 2020 Conference Plenary

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Kevin Yi) — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Discipling in the Epidemic of Loneliness with Anna Meade Harris and Liz Edrington: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Anna Meade Harris, Liz Edrington) — Tue, 9 Feb 2021 17:53:01 +0000

Hope for the Weary with Christina Edmondson: Rooted 2020 Conference Plenary

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry) — Tue, 2 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Christina Edmondson discusses hope for the weary in her plenary talk from our 2020 Rooted Conference. While walking through text from Matthew 11:28-30, Christina speaks on how we can encourage each other to discuss our burdens without despair and how we can rest in the promises of Jesus Christ while enduring life's challenges. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Great Leveler… the Fallen Idols of COVID in the Life of a Teen with Julie Sparkman: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Julie Sparkman) — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

More podcasts with Julie Sparkman:

Julie Sparkman on Our Good Design for Desire

Julie Sparkman on When a Good Desire Becomes a False God

The Gospel and Justice with Watson Jones III: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Watson Jones III) — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 16:22:02 +0000

More podcasts with Watson Jones III:

Death to Living Hope

Pastoring Youth in Church Plants

Understanding and Caring for Same-Sex Attracted Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Becket Cook, Rachel Gilson, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Learn more about Becket Cook's ministry at www.BecketCook.com.

Learn more about Rachel Gilson's ministry at www.RachelGilson.com.

Law and Gospel in Youth Ministry with David Zahl: Rooted 2020 Conference Workshop

rootedoperations@gmail.com (David Zahl) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 13:10:17 +0000

Podcast: David Zahl on Where Teenagers Find Their Enoughness, If Not at Church

Book: Law and Gospel: A Theology for Sinners

Evaluating the Last 20 Years of Youth Ministry: An Interview with Dr. Mike McGarry and Dr. Walt Mueller

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Mike McGarry, Walt Mueller, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 14:48:50 +0000

As 2020 draws to a close, the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast was blessed to spend time with Drs. Mike McGarry and Walt Mueller. These youth ministry practitioner-scholars spent time evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of youth ministry throughout the last 20 years, as well as forecasting what's coming down the pike for the future of youth ministry. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Small Group Leader's Guide to (Almost) Everything: An Interview with Syler Thomas

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Syler Thomas) — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Syler Thomas draws on more than two decades of youth ministry experience to talk through anything and everything related to gospel-centered small groups. Hear Syler's thoughts on the new book he co-authored, "Small Group Leader's Guide to (Almost) Everything." Then, listen to him give wise and helpful answers to questions such as, "How to I develop small group leaders?", "How to I manage kids who over-share?", "What's the ideal size for a small group?" and more. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

How "American Freedom" is Different than "Christian Freedom" (and Why it Matters to Teenagers)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Josh Wester) — Thu, 8 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Whether debating the efficacy of face-coverings to fight a global pandemic, thinking critically about important political issues, or simply asking the age-old question of, "How far is too far?", the concept of freedom is one that is constantly on the mind of teenagers. In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Josh Wester of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) distinguishes between authentic Christian freedom and freedom as defined by the world. Apart from Christ, freedom is defined by asking the question, "How can I please myself?" On the other hand, the Christian defines freedom as the ability to live a life that honors the Lord and loves other people well. In addition to constructing a theology of Christian freedom, Josh delivers down-to-earth advice on how youth workers and parents can help teenagers think through and implement these doctrines at an early age. In light of our cultural moment, we pray that you'll be equipped and encouraged by this timely episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

For the Teenager (or the Youth Minister) who Doubts: An Interview with Shelby Abbott

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Shelby Abbott, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 12:00:12 +0000

Don't miss this article which Shelby mentions in the interview: https://shelbyabbott.com/2020/02/26/red-flags-spiritual-deconstruction-old-friends-rhett-link/

Dr. Andrew Root and "The End of Youth Ministry?"

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 17:32:23 +0000

In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Cameron Cole and Tucker Fleming interview Dr. Andrew Root of Luther Seminary. Dr. Root shares insights from his recent book, "The End of Youth Ministry?". Youth workers will feel both enlightened and liberated as Dr. Root discussed the "shifts" in youth ministry throughout the past century, the importance of the concept of "identity" in youth ministry, and the unique opportunities that we have to minister to students and families in this present age. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Flip-Side of the Statistic: Teenagers who Didn't Leave the Church after Graduation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Davis Lacey, Kevin Carlock, Will Leitner) — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:00:05 +0000

Statistics related to the high percentage of teenagers who walk away from the Church shortly after graduating from high school are legion. And yet in the mercy of God, there are many teenagers whose faith took long-term root during the years of middle school and high school. Two such students - Kevin Carlock (recent graduate of Davidson College) and Will Leitner (senior, Auburn University) - share their stories on this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast. Current youth ministers and parents will find much encouragement as they hear the "little things" that made a big difference in the faith development of Kevin and Will. And, the insights these young men share will also be helpful for those who are designing (or re-designing) strategies to help teenagers persevere in the faith upon graduating from high school. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The Importance of Teaching Eschatology to Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry, Justin Tilghman, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 9 Jul 2020 12:00:10 +0000

Justin's website can be accessed through this link.

Quote: "Never shy away from challenging students to dive deep into theology!"

Resources Justin cited included Gary DeMar and Ligonier Ministries.

Find more youth ministry-related, gospel-centered resources on eschatology (specifically, heaven) by following this link!

Kevin Twit on Challenges College Kids Face

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Ministry, Kevin Twit, Davis Lacey) — Thu, 2 Jul 2020 17:31:08 +0000

In this episode Davis Lacey interviews Kevin Twit, an RUF college pastor at Belmont in Nashville for more than 25 years. They discuss apologetics and the challenges college kids face today particular anxiety and pressure related to performance and social media. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Ask Alice: Fathers Raising Daughters- A Father’s Day Interview With Dr. Langston Haygood

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 10:00:20 +0000

In this very special Father’s Day episode of Ask Alice, Alice Churnock interviews her father, Dr. Langston Haygood, a counselor and pastor who raised three daughters (who, in Alice’s words, are all “amazing!”). Listen in as father and daughter have a candid conversation on the joys and trials of raising daughters. Hear his wisdom on meeting the needs of a daughter at various developmental stages, relating to her in the teen years, and opening the lines of communication.

Dr. Haygood shares all sorts of gospel-rich wisdom for fathers who seek to parent daughters with wisdom and grace. This heartwarming interview is both endearing and informative – be sure to give it a listen to encourage the fathers and daughters in your life!

Asian Americans and Racial Reconciliation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 10:00:22 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Davis talks with Kevin Yi and Clark Fobes about the Asian-American racial experience and where Asians fit into the ongoing race conversations today. Especially in light of the recent events and calls for justice for the black community, they share how Asian-Americans can reconcile their own racial identity as they enter into the broader discussion. More importantly, they discuss how the Gospel compels us towards racial justice and to personal repentance.

Please also see Learning Together: An Asian American Perspective on Racial Justice and Reconciliation.

Thanos to Theos: Re-Inking the Color of Comics: A Conversation On Race and Representation in Comics and Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 10:00:01 +0000

In this episode, the guys host their first guest, Bryan Brown. Over the last decade, there have been new characters introduced into the comic world that have brought meaningful representation to different ethnicities (Miles Morales, Riri Williams, Kamala Khan, Cindy Moon). Bryan shares why this is so meaningful, especially for the African American community. We also discuss ways that representation affects our youth ministries and leadership in the church. If you’d prefer, watch us on YouTube here.

Have questions or comments or a topic for an upcoming episode? We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter:

Email: thanostotheos@gmail.comTwitter: @thanostotheos

If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter:

Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry

Clark Fobes: @fobesman

Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

Bryan Brown: @brownbei4

Becket Cook on Shepherding Students During Pride Month

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Tue, 9 Jun 2020 05:00:34 +0000

While visiting Ellijay, GA for a speaking engagement with Autumn Ridge Community Church, author and speaker Becket Cook sat down with Davis Lacey to share this conversation with the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast. Listen to hear Becket share insights from his book, A Change of Affection: A Gay Man’s Incredible Story of Redemption: his embracing of a gay lifestyle, his radical conversion to Christianity, and his thoughts on how best to shepherd students with respect to issues of human sexuality.

Ask Alice: Boys and Eating Disorders

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 3 Jun 2020 06:00:27 +0000

As summer kicks off, many teenagers will experience heightened pressure surrounding body image, leading to disordered eating for some. Thankfully, the gospel provides good news for bodies: They are created by God for good, redeemed by the Incarnation of Jesus, and awaiting a resurrection like his. In this series, Rooted writers discuss how we can help students navigate identity struggles in light of this gospel of grace.

Licensed professional counselor Alice Churnock recorded this podcast episode immediately after National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. In it, she discusses a variety of eating disorders, how males are uniquely impacted by eating disorders, and how the gospel offers good news to those who experience eating disorders.

Please also see Boys, Body Image, and A Better Story.

This podcast is made available to you by the Rooted Ministry for educational purposes only, not to provide specific therapeutic advice. The views expressed are the personal perspectives of the author and do not represent the views of all counselors or the profession. This podcast does not create a counselor-client relationship and should not be used as a substitute for competent therapeutic counsel from a licensed professional in your state.

Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast: Discussing A Gentle Answer with Scott Sauls

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 27 May 2020 06:00:53 +0000

This week of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Davis Lacey interviews pastor Scott Sauls about his timely new book, A Gentle Answer: Our Secret Weapon in An Age of Us Against Them. Scott Sauls is a longtime friend of Rooted, a veteran conference speaker and lead pastor of our 2018 host church, Christ Presbyterian in Nashville, Tennessee. In an age of hostility expressed in “unfriending” and “cancelling,” among many other things, Sauls see this contentious climate as an opportunity for Christians to demonstrate the gentleness of Jesus in a harsh world.

Scripture references: Proverbs 15:1, Luke 18:9

Scott Sauls on Rooted:

The Holy Spirit Within: Our Hope for Change (plenary from Rooted 2017)
The Creator’s Plan: Our Hope for the Future (workshop from Rooted 2017)
Scott Sauls on Grace, Teenagers, and Befriend (Rooted podcast 2017)
Creating Belonging in an Age of Isolation, Judgement and Fear (Rooted podcast 2019)

Thanos to Theos Episode 5: Friendly Neighborhood Youth Pastor

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 15 May 2020 06:00:54 +0000

In this episode the guys discuss their favorite character-arcs throughout the MCU movies. Mike and Clark square off about Captain America staying with Peggy. We wrap up by highlighting ways we help students learn from storytelling in comics. Especially in a “you-do-you” culture, there’s a lot of value in discussing how superheros reveal the tension between self-denial and self-fulfillment. And we discover how helpful it is to think about this not just for our students, but for ourselves as youth leaders too.

We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes.

If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter:

Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry

Clark Fobes: @fobesman

Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

All About Boys with David Thomas- Episode One

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 6 May 2020 06:00:59 +0000

In this inaugural podcast, veteran Nashville counselor David Thomas introduces us to himself and his family and shares with us the aim for this exciting new Rooted podcast. Designed to help anyone who loves and works with or lives with boys, All About Boys will explore the mental, physical, psychological and spiritual lives of the young men in our care.

Show notes:

The Five stages of Male Development

the Explorer
the Lover
the Individual
the Wanderer
the Warrior

Some of the things David touches on include: activity level, impulse control, rate of development, overstimulation response, learning styles, what a boy needs from parents (among other things, “brain breaks” are a great idea), conversation with boys, appropriate outlets, the complexity of male adolescence, supporting a young adult male- among other things!

Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys by Stephen James and David Thomas

Thanos to Theos: Episode 4

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 1 May 2020 06:00:42 +0000

Episode 4 show notes

In this episode, we discuss NT Wright’s article in Time Magazine (Christianity Offers No Answer About Coronavirus) – what was helpful and where the article seemed incomplete. In the midst of the conversation, we reflect on the central roles of hope and suffering in comic storytelling and wrap up by sharing some ways to pastorally help students through grief by pointing them to the cross and empty tomb.

Articles Referenced:
Christianity Offers No Answers About the Coronavirus. It’s Not Supposed to, by NT Wright (Time Magazine)

Stop Looking for the Greater Good, by Chris Talbot (Rooted Ministry)

Have questions or comments or a topic for an upcoming episode? We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter:

Email: thanostotheos@gmail.com

Twitter: @thanostotheos

If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter:

Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry

Clark Fobes: @fobesman

Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

Ask Alice: The Impact of Birth Order and Family Roles on Sibling Dynamics

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 06:00:40 +0000

This episode of Ask Alice combines Biblical wisdom with practical help for families who are spending A LOT of time together. Alice likens families to ecosystems; when every part is healthy, the whole system thrives. But we live in a fallen world, and that means sibling squabbles and strife are inevitable, starting in Genesis 4.

Alice takes questions from parents, discussing what parents need to know about sibling relationships. She draws on family systems therapy to demonstrate the roles our kids come to play in families (the Hero, the Scapegoat, the Mascot, to name a few), and discusses the impact of birth order as well. She also gives concrete advice about how parents can help their children value and appreciate each other while they are still in the home together.

Thanos to Theos: Episode 3

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 06:00:32 +0000

In this episode the guys discuss the Joker movie: what did we like, what did we hate, and are there…

Thanos to Theos: Episode 2

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 06:10:07 +0000

In this episode of Thanos to Theos, Clark, Kevin, and Mike enjoy a hearty conversation about who is the most…

Thanos to Theos: Episode 1

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 8 Apr 2020 06:00:04 +0000

Introducing Thanos to Theos, the newest podcast from Rooted: Thanos to Theos is a podcast for youth workers who are…

Ask Alice: Silver Linings in the Midst of a Pandemic

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 7 Apr 2020 03:59:52 +0000

In this episode of “Ask Alice,” Alice Churnock reached out to many of her friends in search of COVID-19 “silver…

Ask Alice: Helping Teenagers Deal With Fear in Frightening Times

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 6 Mar 2020 06:00:50 +0000

In this episode of Ask Alice, licensed professional counselor Alice Churnock guides parents through helping teens manage fears about current…

Watson Jones III on Pastoring to Youth in Church Plants

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:04 +0000

At the Rooted 2019 conference in Chicago, Rooted podcast host Davis Lacey sat down with Watson Jones after his plenary.…

Answering Your Kids’ Toughest Questions with Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 06:00:49 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson sit down with Davis Lacey to…

Dorena Williamson on the Importance of Celebrating Black History Month (with Non-Black Students)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 06:00:35 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, Davis Lacey sits down with Dorena Williamson to discuss the origins…

Why Youth Ministry Matters to Collin Hansen

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 7 Feb 2020 06:00:02 +0000

In this episode of The Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast, our host Davis Lacey sits down with Collin Hansen, editorial director…

Ask Alice: Interview With Melody Lovvorn on Parenting Children Through a Divorce

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 06:00:15 +0000

Melody and Trey Lovvorn are fond of saying, “Our divorce did not work out,” but of course when Trey’s pornography…

Katie Polski on Ministering to Our Own Children When We Work in Vocational Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 06:00:59 +0000

For parents who work in vocational ministry, there is often a lingering fear that our children will get “burnt out”…

Rooted Podcast: Mike McGarry on a Biblical Theology of Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 17 Jan 2020 06:00:13 +0000

In an age when churches are questioning the role of youth ministry – what it should look like, or whether…

Rooted Podcast: Kevin Yi on Death to Life in the Heart of Leadership

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 06:00:10 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Kevin Yi connects the life of Moses to our own experience of leading…

Rooted Podcast: Chelsea Kingston Erickson on From Death to Life in the Image of God

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 06:00:48 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, Chelsea Kingston Erickson shows how our teenagers are making an image for themselves—but…

Rooted Podcast: Dr. Christopher Yuan on Holy Sexuality and the Gospel- Not Gay to Straight but Death to Life

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 9 Jan 2020 06:00:57 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Dr. Yuan shares his story of awakening to new life in the gospel.…

Rooted Podcast: Jen Pollock Michel on Telling the Whole Story About Holiness

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 8 Jan 2020 06:00:28 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Jen Pollock Michel encourages youth workers and parents to immerse teenagers in the…

Rooted Podcast: Elyse Fitzpatrick on The Promise that Makes Death Untrue

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Tue, 7 Jan 2020 06:00:01 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Elyse Fitzpatrick shows how Adam and Eve’s response to their sin in the…

Rooted Podcast: Watson Jones III on Death to Living Hope

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 6 Jan 2020 06:00:25 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Watson Jones III reminds us that we have hope in a hopeless age.…

Rooted Podcast: Cameron Cole on The Light of Christ in the Darkness of Grief

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 3 Jan 2020 06:00:28 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Cameron Cole shares vulnerably about the realities of grief and loss in our…

Rooted Podcast: Brian Dye on The Lamb, the Rabbi, and the Christ

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 2 Jan 2020 06:00:53 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Brian Dye reminds us that God see us in our brokenness. He invites…

Ask Alice: Lonely Teens During the Holidays

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 06:00:24 +0000

In this episode of Ask Alice, licensed professional counselor Alice Churnock answers questions about helping teens deal with feeling left…

Rooted Podcast: Jen Pollock Michel on Inviting Students to Take a Closer Look

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 06:00:43 +0000

Moses encountered a paradox: a bush on fire, yet not consumed. Rather than to retreat from this complex, seemingly impossible…

Rooted Podcast: Dr. Jim Coffield on God’s Beautiful Design for Gender

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 1 Nov 2019 06:00:21 +0000

The modern conception of gender has become fluid and blurry. Most youth pastors are encountering students with gender confusion and…

Rooted Podcast: Bijan Mirtolooi on Union with Christ and Why it Matters for Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 06:30:47 +0000

One of the most important doctrines of the New Testament is also one of the most overlooked: union with Christ.…

Rooted Podcast: Dr. Jim Coffield on the Art of Meaningful, Heart-Level Conversations

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 06:30:22 +0000

Parents and youth leaders all want to connect with kids at a deeper level, but we often struggle to get…

Rooted Podcast: Jason Cook, “Groaning ‘Till Glory”

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 06:00:52 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, we hear Jason Cook’s wonderful plenary session from our 2018 conference in Nashville.

Ask Alice: On the Topic of Suicide

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 06:00:27 +0000

In this challenging episode of Ask Alice, we hear from licensed professional counselor — Alice Churnock — on the topic…

Rooted Podcast: Dave Choi on Beholding the Glory of God

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 4 Oct 2019 06:30:16 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, hear Dave Choi’s moving plenary session (from last year’s Rooted conference in Nashville)…

Rooted Podcast: Robby Holt on Glory, Grace, and Heaven

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 06:00:15 +0000

In advance of Rooted 2019, we wanted to give you pastor Robby Holt’s grace-filled plenary talk from last year’s conference…

Podcast: Julia Friedman, “The Waiting is the Hardest Part”

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 06:28:55 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, hear Julia Friedman’s wonderful plenary talk entitled, “The Waiting is the Hardest Part.”…

Rooted Podcast: John Greco from She Reads Truth on Biblical Literacy

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 06:00:50 +0000

This episode of the Rooted podcast (recorded at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 conference in Indianapolis) features John Greco, Content Director…

Ask Alice: A Conversation with Dr. Stacey Gilbert on Teenagers Struggling with Anxiety and Depression

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Is your child or student struggling with anxiety and/or depression? In this informative episode of Ask Alice, licensed professional counselor…

Rooted Podcast: Nancy Guthrie on What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps and What Really Hurts

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 9 Sep 2019 06:00:30 +0000

When someone we know is grieving, we want to help. But sometimes we stay away or stay silent, afraid that…

Rooted Podcast: Scott Sauls on Creating Belonging in an Age of Judgement, Isolation and Fear

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 06:00:51 +0000

At a time when our country is increasingly polarized and antagonistic, this workshop from our 2018 conference in Nashville helps…

Rooted Podcast: Tony Souder on Intergenerational Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 06:00:11 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, we speak to the delightful Tony Souder about his passion for helping youth…

Rooted Podcast: Daniel Im on Youth Ministry and the Shifting Tides of Culture

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 06:00:48 +0000

In this fascinating episode of the Rooted Podcast, Davis Lacey sits down with Daniel Im to discuss discipleship, maturity, church…

Rooted Podcast: Dr. Russell Moore on Teaching Students to Have Gospel-Formed Consciousnesses

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 06:00:01 +0000

This remarkable episode of the Rooted podcast was recorded at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 conference in Indianapolis. Our own Davis…

Rooted Podcast: Julie Sparkman on Our Good Design for Desire

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Tue, 13 Aug 2019 06:00:55 +0000

In this insightful episode of the Rooted Podcast, our own Liz Edrington interviews fellow counselor Julie Sparkman about desire, longing,…

Rooted Podcast: Jen Pollock Michel on Shepherding Students Through the Paradoxes of Faith

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 06:00:22 +0000

This wonderful episode of the Rooted podcast was recorded at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 conference in Indianapolis. Our own Davis…

Ask Alice: Dealing With Disappointment

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 9 Aug 2019 06:00:44 +0000

In this episode of Ask Alice, licensed professional counselor Alice Churnock looks ahead to the start of school and discusses…

Rooted Podcast: Julie Sparkman on When A Good Desire Becomes a False God

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 7 Aug 2019 06:00:59 +0000

This episode of the Rooted podcast is a workshop conducted by counselor and Bible teacher Julie Sparkman at our 2018…

Rooted Podcast: Melissa Kruger on Praying for Your Children

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 5 Aug 2019 06:00:27 +0000

At the TGC conference in April 2019, Rooted Parent had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with author and Bible…

Rooted Podcast: Joe Gibbes on Joy and Lament in Psalms

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 06:00:11 +0000

This workshop from our 2018 conference in Nashville provides encouragement and balm to the discouraged and brokenhearted parent and youth…

Rooted Podcast: Chap Bettis on Casting a Vision for Gospel-Centered Parenting

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 06:00:54 +0000

Join us for this episode of the Rooted podcast! Rooted Parent editor Anna Meade Harris sits down with author Chap…

Ask Alice: Understanding Developmental Needs of Children Beyond the Classroom

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 19 Jul 2019 06:00:36 +0000

What’s going on with our kids? What do they need? What can we, as youth workers and parents, do to…

Rooted Podcast: God’s Design for Male and Female

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 11 Jul 2019 06:00:59 +0000

Liz Edrington and Cary Bayless follow up their conversations about discipling girls and boys with this deep dive into the…

Rooted Podcast: How Do We Love and Disciple Girls Well?

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 06:00:53 +0000

Over the next few weeks we will take a look on both sides of the blog at how we —…

Rooted Podcast: How Do We Love and Disciple Boys Well?

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 06:00:56 +0000

Over the next few weeks we will take a look on both sides of the blog at how we —…

Rooted Podcast: Bijan Mirtolooi on Tools for Contextualization

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 06:00:29 +0000

One of the great challenges for ministers today is being faithful to the gospel while at the same time communicating…

Rooted Podcast: Robert Smith on Doxologizing While Preaching

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 7 Jun 2019 06:00:15 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Dr. Robert Smith speaks with our own Anna Meade Harris about his remarkable views…

Rooted Podcast: Scotty Smith on Ministering to Teenagers in a Church Plant

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 24 May 2019 06:00:06 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, we hear from our dear friend, Scotty Smith, on the unique position of…

Ask Alice: Liked but Still Lonely, the Realities of iGen Relationships with Technology

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 10 May 2019 12:56:50 +0000

Thanks so to social media, iGen is considered the most connected generation. But relationally, the server is not found. On…

Rooted Podcast: Rebecca Heck on Building a Gospel-Centered Culture for Your Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 3 May 2019 06:00:08 +0000

Depending on your weekly schedule, you’re lucky if you have two or three hours (tops) with the bulk of your…

Rooted Podcast: Tim Challies on Teenagers and True Productivity

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Mon, 29 Apr 2019 06:00:21 +0000

This wonderful episode of the Rooted podcast was recorded at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 conference where our own Davis Lacey…

Rooted Podcast: Dave Thomas on Adolescent Anxiety

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 06:00:51 +0000

Join us for this episode of the Rooted podcast, where Rooted steering committee member Kristen Hatton interview counselor Dave Thomas…

Rooted Podcast: Jason Cook on the Necessity of History in Discipleship

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 06:00:09 +0000

Faithful exegesis is an essential part of Christian discipleship. In order to faithfully teach God’s word, the scriptures must be…

Rooted Podcast: David Zahl on Where Teenagers Find Their Enoughness, If Not at Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Tue, 9 Apr 2019 06:00:22 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, we hear from our friend David Zahl of Mockingbird. Take it from us,…

The Rooted Podcast: Joe Gibbes on Law, Gospel, and the Wisdom to Know the Difference

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 5 Apr 2019 06:00:00 +0000

One of the most helpful and empowering theological paradigms for ministry and parenting is that of “Law” and “Gospel.” This…

Rooted Podcast: Gospel Contextualization of Anxiety and Academic Pressure in Affluent Suburban and Asian American Contexts

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 06:00:47 +0000

Young people in both affluent suburban and Asian-American settings experience intense stress and academic pressure. This workshop from our 2018…

Rooted Podcast: Ask Alice, On Spring Break and Bathing Suit Season

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 01:18:19 +0000

Rooted Ministry is tremendously excited to announce a new ongoing podcast series, “Ask Alice,” featuring your questions addressed by licensed…

Rooted Podcast: The Similarities Between Church Planting and Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 8 Mar 2019 06:00:37 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, hear from our own Davis Lacey (interviewed by Kevin Yi) about his journey from…

Rooted Podcast: Dave Choi on the Necessity of Prayer

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 06:00:54 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, hear Dave Choi’s workshop – entitled “The Necessity of Prayer” – recorded at…

Podcast: Walt Mueller on Teaching Teenagers About Biblical Sexuality

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 06:00:36 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast (recorded at our most recent conference in Nashville), enjoy this conversation between Chelsea…

Rooted Podcast: Rebecca Heck on Building a Gospel-Centered Culture for Your Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 06:00:09 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, enjoy Rebecca Heck’s excellent workshop from our 2018 conference in Nashville. Depending on…

Podcast: Liz Edrington on Loving the Tough Kids in Our Ministries

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 8 Feb 2019 06:00:23 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, hear Liz Edrington’s Workshop (recorded at our 2018 conference in Nashville) about seeing…

Rooted Podcast: Robby Holt on Life After Death

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 1 Feb 2019 06:00:42 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, we hear our wonderful Rooted 2018 Plenary Speaker Robby Holt speak with Rooted’s own David…

Rooted Podcast: A Conversation with Kristen Hatton and Rebecca Hatton

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 1 Feb 2019 06:00:27 +0000

Author and Rooted Steering Committee member Kristen Hatton and her daughter Rebecca Hatton sit down for a conversation with our…

Rooted Podcast: Mom, Dad, What’s Sex? with Jessica Thompson and Joel Fitzpatrick

rootedoperations@gmail.com (rooted-blog) — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 06:00:13 +0000

Rooted Parent editor Anna Meade Harris talks with authors Jessica Thompson and Joel Fitzpatrick about their new book. Thompson and…

Rooted Podcast: The Importance of Celebrating Milestones and Rites of Passage for Teens

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:31:20 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, hear David Brashler speak with Chelsea Erickson about the importance of celebrating milestones…

Podcast: Nancy Guthrie on What Grieving People Wish You Knew

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 05:58:36 +0000

In this beautiful episode of the Rooted Podcast, hear from renowned author and speaker Nancy Guthrie about how to speak with people…

Podcast: Clark Fobes on the Challenges of Ministry in the Asian-American Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 16:53:38 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, we hear from Clark Fobes about the unique challenges of working as a…

Podcast: Sharon Hersh on Teenagers and Addiction

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 13:26:17 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast (recorded at our 2017 conference in Dallas), we hear from Sharon Hersh about…

Podcast: On Discipling Your Asian-American Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 03:11:47 +0000

On this episode of the Rooted podcast, hear Mike McGarry and Clark Fobes discuss the various distinctives of your Asian…

Podcast: Brent Bounds on Psychology and Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 03:50:09 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, hear Justin Pillsbury (Youth Pastor at Cahaba Park Presbyterian Church in Birmingham) talk…

Podcast: A Conversation About Teenagers and Shame

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 03:48:52 +0000

Check out this wonderful discussion between Chelsea Erickson and Liz Edrington about the awful power of shame, and how the…

Rooted 2017: Kris Fernhout on The Five Pillars of Effective Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 7 Sep 2018 12:02:17 +0000

During the “New to Youth Ministry Pre-Conference” at Rooted 2017 in Dallas, Kris Fernhout lays out Rooted’s five pillars of…

Rooted 2017: Cameron Cole on a Theology of the Cross v. Glory, How We Theologically Misunderstand Our Kids

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 03:53:51 +0000

For years, churches and families have ministered to kids through moralism and exhortation. We tend to minister to kids through…

Podcast: Dr. Gordon Bals on Discussing Grief with Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 14 Aug 2018 03:43:28 +0000

Grieving, in the life of a teenager, can result from many events (not just death). In this podcast Anna Harris…

Rooted 2017: David Ake on Teaching Junior High Students Scripture

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 13:04:04 +0000

In the middle of a hectic week of building relationships and shepherding students, you sit down at your desk for…

Podcast: A Conversation Between Dr. Julius Kim and Clark Fobes

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 13:21:36 +0000

Check out this conversation between Julius Kim (Dean of Students at Westminster Seminary) and Rooted Ministry’s Clark Fobes. Dr. Kim…

Rooted 2017: Sharon Hersh on the Anatomy of Addiction

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 05:39:46 +0000

Whether it’s drugs, alcohol, pornography, or just the incessant use of social media and smart phones, addictive behavior is all…

Rooted 2017: Mike McGarry on Understanding What Teenagers Believe (and the Gospel’s Response)

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 04:12:40 +0000

The gospel is unchanging, but the students to whom we minister are changing all the time. It is vital to…

Rooted 2017: Zac Hicks on Making Worship a Lifestyle for Kids, Not Just a Few Songs on Sunday

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 04:12:03 +0000

One of the great dangers for our kids is to think of worship as a box to check for an…

Podcast: A Conversation with Mark Upton About Hope for Youth Workers and Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 8 Jun 2018 03:32:54 +0000

Mark Upton – pastor at Hope Community Church in Charlotte, NC – shares a refreshing message of hope for youth…

Rooted 2017: Kristen Hatton on Reorienting Our Teens to the Truth Social Media Distorts

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 May 2018 12:16:36 +0000

Synopsis: Walk into a room full of teenagers and quite possibly every one of them will be on their phones,…

Rooted 2017: Liz Edrington on the Anatomy of Shame

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 11 May 2018 02:43:12 +0000

Parents and youth pastors both observe a number of concerning behavioral trends among teens: withdrawal, anxiety, and perfectionism. So many…

Podcast: Anna Harris and Kristen Hatton on Parenting Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 4 May 2018 03:07:35 +0000

In this podcast, Rooted Parent Editor, Anna Harris, sits down with Kristen Hatton (Get Your Story Straight: A Teen’s Guide…

Rooted 2017: Kevin Yi on Finding Our Place in God’s Story

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 02:53:13 +0000

One of the most beautiful things about the gospel is that it answers one of life’s biggest questions: “Who am…

Rooted 2017: Brent Bounds on a Psychological Perspective of Spiritual Formation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 20 Apr 2018 04:53:50 +0000

In this workshop from our 2017 conference in Dallas, Brent Bounds looks at developmental theories of Piaget and Erikson and…

Rooted 2017: Syler Thomas on Building a Youth Ministry that Strengthens Christians and Welcomes Non-Christians

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 04:05:44 +0000

In youth ministry, some of us have been told that you can only do one thing or another at one…

Rooted 2017: Clark Fobes on Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry in the Asian Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 04:04:18 +0000

When it comes to a robust, Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, many common themes might include: Gospel-centered preaching, encouraging parents to be…

Rooted 2017: Zac Hicks on Being a Worship Leader Defined by the Gospel

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 12:03:23 +0000

Leading worship is a sacred task, and there are ways to engage in this call which, in the words of…

Rooted 2017: Julius Kim on Preaching the Whole Counsel of God

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 23 Mar 2018 04:03:30 +0000

Based on Julius Kim’s new preaching book from Zondervan, this workshop from our 2017 conference provides an introduction to the…

Rooted 2017: Alice Churnock on Media Messages and the Impact on Adolescent Body Image

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Fri, 16 Mar 2018 04:30:11 +0000

In a culture of skinny jeans and thigh gaps, it’s no surprise that body dissatisfaction is at an all-time high…

Rooted 2017: Doug Franklin on Developing Student Leaders Who Make an Impact

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 1 Mar 2018 04:35:19 +0000

As Christ followers we are called to go into the world and make disciples, teaching them to obey all that…

Pursuing Racial Diversity in Youth Ministry: A Discussion with Jason Cook and Clark Fobes

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 19:58:29 +0000

In this podcast, Jason Cook – editor for The Gospel Coalition and Pastor at Fellowship Memphis – and I discuss…

Rooted 2017: Walt Mueller on How the Youth Pastor Can Support and Lead Parents in Discipling Their Kids

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 04:11:15 +0000

The Scriptures are clear: parents are primarily responsible for the Christian nurture of their children and teens. Youth workers are…

Sex Education Curriculum, Episode 4

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 05:40:11 +0000

This is Episode 4 of Rooted’s Sex Education Curriculm for Families, “Be Aware of What Our Culture At Large Tells…

Sex Education Curriculum, Episode 3

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 02:25:44 +0000

This is Episode 3 of Rooted’s Sex Education Curriculum for Families, “Sex is for Intimacy in the Glorifying of God…

Sex Education Curriculum, Episode 2

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 05:12:59 +0000

This is Episode 2 of Rooted’s Sex Education Curriculum for Families, “Sex is Not Inherently Bad; It is Sin that…

Sex Education Curriculum, Episode 1

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 01:57:25 +0000

This is Episode 1 of Rooted’s Sex Education Curriculum for Families, “Sex is a Gift from God and Is To…

Rooted 2017: Mark Upton on How to Find Hope When People Take You Where You Don’t Want to Go

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:16:39 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Mark Upton delivered this talk focused on John 21: 15-19 entitled, “How to…

Rooted 2017: Dave Wright on Hope Overcoming Despair

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:10:44 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Dave Wright delivered this talk focused on Romans 14:5-12 entitled, “Hope Overcoming Despair:…

Rooted 2017: Jason Cook on Jonah in the Run and the Chase

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:06:00 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Jason Cook delivered this talk focused on Jonah 1 entitled, “The Run and…

Rooted 2017: Julius Kim on Gospel Pilgrims: A Life of Suffering and Hope

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:04:52 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Julius Kim delivered this talk focused on 2 Kings 4:8-27 entitled, “Gospel Pilgrims:…

Rooted 2017: Jen Wilkin on Living as Those with a Living Hope

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:03:36 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Jen Wilkin delivered this talk focused on 1 Peter 1: 3-16 entitled, “Living…

Rooted 2017: Scott Sauls on the Creator’s Plan: Our Hope for the Future

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:02:08 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Scott Sauls delivered this talk focused on Romans 8:18-25 entitled, “The Creator’s Plan:…

Rooted 2017: Scott Sauls on the Holy Spirit Within: Our Hope for Change

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:01:29 +0000

At our 2017 conference in Dallas, Texas, Scott Sauls delivered this talk focused on Romans 8:1-11 entitled, “The Holy Spirit…

How to Make the Right Hire in Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 12:01:03 +0000

Rooted’s own Cameron Cole sits down with Reverend Joe Gibbs – the head pastor at Church of Our Savior in…

Helping Kids Deal with Grief

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 03:07:33 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted podcast, we discuss the inevitability that student leaders and parents will encounter a kid…

Ministry to Students Who Are Atheist

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 04:17:50 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Cameron Cole, Brandon Bennett, Clark Fobes, and Liz Edrington examine the ways we…

Interview with Teen Author Jaquelle Crowe

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 01:14:13 +0000

We had the awesome privilege of interviewing Jaquelle Crowe at this year’s TGC Conference in Indianapolis. In this quick conversation,…

What to do About Underage Drinking

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 03:31:36 +0000

There is a dynamic amongst high school Christians (and in many youth ministries) where what it means to be…

Rooted 2016: Dan Wilson and Cooper Pinson on Understanding Sexual Struggles

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 04:08:18 +0000

The Tree: A Model for Understanding Sexual Struggles Where does our sexuality come from, and how can we understand our…

Rooted 2016: Dave Wright on Growing as a Speaker

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 14 May 2017 04:20:12 +0000

Growing as a Speaker How do we improve our communication of the gospel and the truths of God’s word? Effective…

Rooted 2016: Dan Wilson and Cooper Pinson on Integrating Gospel Sexuality into Student Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 14 May 2017 04:14:17 +0000

Sexualized: Integrating Gospel Sexuality into Student Ministry This workshop helps listeners to communicate and implement a gospel vision for sexuality…

Rooted 2016: Dan Wilson and Cooper Pinson on Sexual Struggles

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 13 May 2017 04:11:56 +0000

The Tree: A Model for Understanding Sexual Struggles, Dan Wilson and Cooper Pinson Where does our sexuality come from, and…

Rooted 2016: Ben Shin on How Shame Affects Asian American Youth

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 13 May 2017 03:51:22 +0000

Ain’t That a Shame: Understanding How Shame Affects Asian American Youth The pressures of youth today are enormous, especially if…

Rooted 2016: Mark Howard and Dr. Tiffany Whitworth on Peacemaking

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 13 May 2017 03:36:50 +0000

Peacemaker: Practical Skills in Dealing with Conflict Conflict happens. It can ruin relationships within friendships, families, and churches. But it…

Rooted 2016: Clark Fobes on What Makes Us Commendable Ministers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 10 May 2017 03:49:36 +0000

Here is the last (but certainly not least) plenary talk from our 2016 conference in San Diego. Clark Fobes asked…

Rooted 2016: Mike McGarry on Theology of Fun and Games

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 7 May 2017 04:07:32 +0000

Don’t build your ministry on fun and games, but don’t be afraid to utilize them in order to build a…

Rooted 2016: James Sutton on Blindspots in Racial Reconciliation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 7 May 2017 03:58:25 +0000

This workshop focuses on four categories of blindspots and how they impede racial reconciliation. James Sutton – pastor at Holy…

Rooted 2016: Mark Howard on the Gospel in the Muslim World

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 6 May 2017 06:52:58 +0000

More Iranians have become Christians in the past two decades than the previous 1,300 years combined. This workshop looks at…

Rooted 2016: Dr. Tiffany Whitworth on Supporting At-Risk Youth

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 6 May 2017 03:45:52 +0000

Messy divorce. Cutting. Substance abuse. Trauma. Many youth live with painful realities. In this workshop, clinical child psychologist, Tiffany Whitworth,…

Rooted 2016: Kristen Hatton on Helping Teens See Their Identity and Worth in Christ

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 6 May 2017 02:00:49 +0000

Driven by our selfie culture, today’s teens spend countless hours consumed with their image and insecure about how they compare…

Rooted 2016: Liz Edrington on Reconciliation with the Self

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 3 May 2017 11:37:17 +0000

Liz Edrington’s noted in this remarkable talk at our 2016 conference in San Diego that the way we relate to…

Rooted 2016: James Sutton on Racial Reconciliation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 11:38:32 +0000

At our 2016 conference in San Diego, James Sutton delved into the extremely challenging and critical issue of racial division…

Rooted 2016: Cameron Cole on Reconciliation with the Father

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 03:00:11 +0000

Our fearless leader at Rooted, Cameron Cole, gave this amazing plenary talk at our 2016 conference in San Diego. In…

Rooted 2016: Michael Horton on Reconciliation, Part 2

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 22 Mar 2017 04:33:02 +0000

We continue our release of podcast recordings from our 2016 conference in San Diego with Michael Horton’s second plenary session…

Rooted 2016: Jessica Thompson on Ministering to Teenagers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 8 Mar 2017 05:12:13 +0000

Jessica Thompson, a Christian writer and parent of three, gave an excellent talk at this year’s Rooted conference. She offered…

Rooted 2016: Michael Horton on Reconciliation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 05:22:34 +0000

Over the next few weeks, we are thrilled to finally be releasing podcast recordings of the plenary talks from our…

Why Kids Need to Hear the Message of Grace: Jessica Thompson Talks with Rooted

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 06:00:37 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Cameron Cole (Founder and Chairman of Rooted Ministry) and Kristen Hatton (author of…

On Preaching to Youth: An Interview with Julius Kim

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 9 Nov 2016 04:52:07 +0000

“You [youth ministers] are unique warriors, unique soldiers, you’re like special ops who no one really knows about, who never…

Youth Today: An Interview with Dr. Michael Horton

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 13:34:23 +0000

In this extraordinary episode of the Rooted Podcast, listen to Cameron Cole and Dave Wright interview one of our great…

How to Prepare Students for College Religion Class: A Conversation with Mark Gignilliat

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 06:00:05 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Cameron Cole interviews Mark Gignilliat about preparing students for their college religion class…

Dave Wright: Integrated! Getting Students into the Life of the Church

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 12:27:37 +0000

Dave Wright, Coordinator for Youth Ministries in the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina, spoke at the 2015 Rooted Conference about…

Rooted: Five White Youth Leaders Talk Race Relations and Ministry with Teens

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 2 Aug 2016 07:00:29 +0000

From our Editor-in-Chief, Charlotte Getz: This was a really hard conversation. All five of us are white. We struggled to…

Peter Ong: Christ’s Ministry Beyond a Shadow of a Doubt

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 12:09:01 +0000

We’re thrilled to share Peter Ong’s humorous yet poignant talk from the 2015 Rooted Conference in Chicago. In his plenary…

Philip Walkley: Gospel in Youth Missions with the Poor

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 07:00:21 +0000

Philip Walkley, Executive Director of Service Over Self (SOS) in Memphis, gave an excellent workshop at the 2015 Rooted Conference…

Common Mistakes In Youth Missions: A Conversation with Cameron Cole, Philip Walkley and Drew Haltom

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Wed, 8 Jun 2016 13:25:11 +0000

It’s summer, which means many churches are preparing to send their youth on a mission trip. In this podcast, Cameron…

The Problem of Burnout in Student Ministry: A Conversation with Andy Cornett, Liz Edrington, Dave Wright, and Sarah Seibels

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 31 May 2016 00:00:00 +0000

As any student minister knows, burnout is a real but invisible threat always looming on the horizon. Starting out, we…

The Pros and Cons of Summertime: A Conversation with Andy Cornett, Liz Edrington, Dave Wright, and Sarah Seibels

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 10 May 2016 00:00:00 +0000

With summer quickly approaching, Rooted invited our four sages of youth ministry – Andy Cornett, Sarah Seibels, Dave Wright, and…

Addressing the Elephant: Teaching and Talking about Porn with Students

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0000

In his workshop at the 2015 Rooted Conference, Dan Wilson talked about “the elephant” in the room: sexual struggle. He…

Partnering with Parents: A Conversation with Liz Edrington, Andy Cornett, Sarah Seibels and Dave Wright

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0000

In conjunction with our series currently running on the blog (“Partnering with Parents”), Rooted invited four sage student ministry practitioners…

Deepening Teens’ Understanding of Worship: A Conversation Between Cameron Cole and Jay Gardner

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Sun, 27 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Ministry Podcast, Jay Gardner and Cameron Cole define the idea of ‘worship,’ and delve…

The Role of Apologetics in Student Ministry: A Conversation with Andy Cornett, Liz Edrington, Dave Wright, and Sarah Seibels

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Mon, 7 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000

In conjunction with our series currently running on the blog (“Five Apologetics Every Student Needs”), Rooted invited four sage student…

Scotty Smith: Why Did Jesus Come? The Measureless Grace of the Incarnation

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

Scotty Smith offered this powerful opening talk at the 2015 Rooted Conference about the measureless grace of the incarnation. Scotty…

David Plant: The Season of Betrayal: Knowing Our Deceptive Hearts, Seeing Our Need for Community

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

David Plant, Assistant Pastor and Community Group Director at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC, taught on the value of friendship…

Teens, Sexual Restraint, and the Trinity: Dr. Wesley Hill speaks with Rooted

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

Dr. Wesley Hill, author of Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and Homosexuality, joins this conversation with the Rooted Podcast…

Ministering to Gay Students: Dr. Wesley Hill speaks with Rooted

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Matt Robitaille) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

The Rooted Podcast Team sits down with Dr. Wesley Hill, author of Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and…

Elisabeth Elliott: Reforming the International Mission Trip

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 04:35:07 +0000

At the 2015 Rooted Conference Elisabeth Elliott presented a workshop about international mission trips with youth groups.

Eric McKiddie: Bringing Out the Life Changing Power of the Bible’s Nitty-Gritty Details

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 04:24:04 +0000

Eric McKiddie presented a workshop about the power of the Bible’s details at the 2015 Rooted Conference.

Scotty Smith: Cultivating an Incarnational Community of Grace

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 03:40:19 +0000

Scotty Smith offered this second powerful talk at the 2015 Rooted Conference about the community of grace from Philippians. Scotty…

Peter Ong: The Distinct Latent Treasures and Dangers of Asian American Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 03:13:46 +0000

At the 2015 Rooted Conference Peter Ong led a workshop about the some of the issues Asian American youth minister…

Mary Willson: The Incarnation and the Teenage Soul

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sun, 25 Oct 2015 19:19:15 +0000

At the 2015 Rooted Conference Mary Willson, associate director of women’s initiatives for The Gospel Coalition, gave a talk entitled…

Mark Senter: Youth Ministry: Rooted in the Gospel

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 19:14:59 +0000

Dr. Mark Senter opened the 2015 Rooted Conference with at talk entitled, “Youth Ministry: Rooted in the Gospel.” Mark recently…

Cameron Cole: Good News for People Pleasers

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 16:41:01 +0000

At the 2015 Rooted Conference Cameron Cole, founding chairman of Rooted Ministry and Director of Youth Ministries at the Cathedral…

Liz Edrington: The Trinity, Attachment Theory, and the Power of Relationship

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 03:41:25 +0000

In her workshop at the 2015 Rooted Conference, Liz Edrington, counselor and former youth minister, talked about the trinity, attachment…

Mike McGarry: Youth Ministry as a Bridge Between Church and Home

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 03:19:54 +0000

In his workshop at the 2015 Rooted Conference, Mike McGarry talked about partnering with parents to build a bridge between…

Rooted 2013 Audio – Darren DePaul: Practical Discipleship for Youth Ministry

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:47:23 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Darren DePaul.

Rooted 2013 Audio – Liz Edrington: iRelationship: Doing Incarnational Ministry in a Technologically Dependent Culture

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:24:02 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Liz Edrington.

Rooted 2013 Audio – Bijan Mirtolooi: Living in God’s Story

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:18:23 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Bijan Mirtolooi on living in God’s story and the practical impact of redemptive history for…

Rooted 2013 Audio – Andy Odle: Reimagining Youth Missions

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:11:23 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Andy Odle.

Rooted 2013 Audio – Sharon Hersh: The Deepest Story

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:06:32 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Sharon Hersh.

Rooted 2013 Audio – Sharon Hersh: The Gift of Suffering

rootedoperations@gmail.com (Rooted Operations) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 14:42:32 +0000

2013 Rooted Conference audio from Sharon Hersh on the gift of suffering.