Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable

Transitions, Part 1 - Leadership

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 6 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Transitions can be tough, as is navigating all sorts of changes. Dorothy, Huey, and Terrence chat about transitions, with part one being about leadership. The trio discusses what catalyzes leadership transitions; how they navigated departures from their former posts at Asian American churches; as well as what helps, hurts, and offers hopeful insights to those who may be amidst leadership shifts to come.

Rooted Resources -

A How-To Guide for Navigating a Youth Ministry Transition by Davis Lacey

When It’s Time to Leave Your Current Youth Ministry Position by Bradley Blaylock

Resources Mentioned -

What God Taught Me As I Left Youth Ministry by Seth Stewart

Proverbs 16:9

James 4:8a

Follow the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.

Join us for our annual Rooted Conference this October 22-24 in Nashville, TN, to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded that you’re not alone in ministry.

Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Rooted’s 5 Pillars in Asian American Youth Ministry: Relational Discipleship, Parent Partnership and Intergenerational Integration

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Clearly articulated core values have a powerful way of shaping the trajectory of any youth ministry. In this two-part series, we explore Rooted’s Five Pillars for gospel-centered youth ministry in the Asian American context—what they are, why they are important, and how we can live them out with students. In this episode, we will discuss the last three pillars: relational discipleship, partnering with parents, and intergenerational integration. We explain how these pillars can provide a common vocabulary and framework, highlighting the need for clarity and purpose in the Asian American youth ministry.

*Hebrews 13:17

Rooted Resources:

The Five Pillars: Foundations of Youth Ministry Panel

Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, eds. Cameron Cole, Jon Nielson (Crossway, 2016).

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, ed. Kevin Yi (New Growth Press, 2023).

Rooted Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community.

Subscribe and follow Rooted’s youth ministry podcasts: Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable and Youth Ministry Unscripted podcasts.

Rooted’s 5 Pillars in Asian American Youth Ministry: Gospel Centrality and Theological Depth

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Clearly articulated core values have a powerful way of shaping the trajectory of any youth ministry. In this two-part series, we explore Rooted’s Five Pillars for gospel-centered youth ministry in the Asian American context—what they are, why they are important, and how we can live them out with students. In this episode, we will discuss the first two pillars: gospel centrality and theological depth. We explain how these pillars can provide a common vocabulary and framework, highlighting the need for clarity and purpose in the Asian American youth ministry.

The Five Pillars: Foundations of Youth Ministry Panel

Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, eds. Cameron Cole, Jon Nielson (Crossway, 2016).

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, ed. Kevin Yi (New Growth Press, 2023).

Rooted Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community.

Subscribe and follow Rooted’s youth ministry podcasts:

Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable and Youth Ministry Unscripted podcasts.

Live from Houston Youth Symposium

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The world in which our students are growing up is changing faster than ever, and youth ministry must thoughtfully prepare to meet the moment. This episode features highlights from the Youth Symposium 2026 in Houston, Texas—a one-day gathering designed to equip pastors, youth leaders, and parents with gospel-centered wisdom for discipling the next generation. Engaging workshops on mental health, Gen Z culture, digital discipleship, student leadership, and gospel-centered teaching offer tools for shepherding students in today’s complex cultural landscape.

Rooted Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community.

Asian American Leadership Conference (April 28-29, 2026)

Subscribe and follow the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast

Check out Rooted’s gospel-centered curriculum and mentoring opportunities

Join us at an upcoming Rooted Conference to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded you’re not alone in ministry.

Hardships in Leadership

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 4 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Leadership in youth ministry often looks exciting from the outside—but many leaders quietly carry exhaustion, discouragement, and spiritual weight. In this episode, we explore the hidden hardships of leadership: unmet expectations, loneliness, criticism, burnout, and the temptation to quit when faithfulness feels costly. This conversation helps youth ministers name their struggles honestly, understand why hardship is not a sign of failure, and learn how God uses suffering to form resilient, Christ-centered leaders who endure for the long haul.

Confessions of a Struggling Youth Minister (Series)

Rooted’s Youth Ministry Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community.

Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church by Paul David Tripp.

1 Peter 5:1-5

Hebrews 13:17

Subscribe and follow the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast

Check out Rooted’s gospel-centered curriculum and mentoring opportunities

Join us for Rooted’s 2026 Conference in Nashville, TN to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded you’re not alone in ministry.

Missions: Pastoral Wisdom

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence continues a lively dialogue with Dorothy and Huey to share their resources for cross-cultural missions, which reveal their diverse backgrounds. The episode continues with robust back-and-forth on the priorities and pitfalls of leading youth teams, accompanied by pearls of wisdom to be applied before, during, and/or after a mission trip. Grab a seat and join us!

Rooted Resources on Missions

Missions and Youth Ministry (Conference Panel with Josh Newton, Danny Kwon, and Isaiah Marshall)

He Is Worthy: Helping Students Discover Meaning in Missions by Joey Turner

Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!

Watch the episode on YouTube!

Missions: Personal Experiences

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 4 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence is joined by Dorothy and Huey (the Birthday Boy) to talk about their personal experiences with cross-cultural missions, which reveal their diverse backgrounds. They then delve into the details to unpack the usefulness, purpose, and pet peeves embedded in planning and execution from the POV of youth ministry. Grab a seat and join us!

He Is Worthy: Helping Students Discover Meaning in Missions - Rooted Ministry

Missions - Rooted Ministry

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.

Watch us on Youtube!

Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Springtime Forecast

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, the team reflects on the momentum of their first episode and looks ahead to shaping meaningful spring content. Welcoming new voices—including Huey (Christ Central Presbyterian Church) and Dorothy (Chinese Bible Church of Maryland) & Special Guest, Esther —the conversation blends personal stories, regional experiences, and practical wisdom for navigating the spring semester in youth ministry.

The group explores the unique rhythms of spring as a season of transition marked by endings and new beginnings. Topics range from confirmation and baptism classes to reinforcing vision after the January “reset,” with Justin outlining a framework of building theological foundations in the fall and applying them through discipleship and mission in the spring. Special attention is given to planning around key moments like Easter, graduation, and the realities of AP exam season, when student participation often dips.

Dorothy and Huey offer concrete strategies for sustaining community during academically intense months—such as smaller gatherings, off-site events, prayer spaces, and investing intentionally in younger students—while emphasizing balance, rest, and spiritual depth. The episode closes with a call for thoughtful spring planning that prioritizes formation over busyness, preparing students spiritually for the freedom and challenges of the summer ahead.

RESOURCES

Teenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders, by Monica Kim and Danny Kwon

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.

Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Milestones, Celebrations, and Annual Events

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Rooted, Justin sits down with Dorothy, Huey, and special guest Esther to talk about milestones, celebrations, appreciation, and annual events in youth ministry. Together, they explore what’s worth marking, how to celebrate students and leaders well, and how simple rhythms can build meaningful, Gospel-centered community—without overcomplicating things.

Shepherding Students and Leaders through the Dark Night of their Soul, PT2

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In part 2 of 2, we’re exploring the theme of “dark night of the soul” in Asian American youth ministry, sharing personal stories of spiritual dryness, ministry discouragement, and the hidden pressures that shape these seasons. We unpack how youth workers can recognize spiritual desolation in themselves and in their students, respond with patience and presence rather than quick fixes, and build healthier ministry cultures that allow vulnerability and support. The conversation ultimately points toward hope—trusting that even in fruitless, confusing, and silent seasons, God is still at work forming leaders, students, and communities for deeper faithfulness.

Navigating the “Dark Night of the Soul” as Asian American Youth Workers

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 3 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this first of two episodes, we’re exploring the theme of “dark night of the soul” in Asian American youth ministry, sharing personal stories of spiritual dryness, ministry discouragement, and the hidden pressures that shape these seasons. We unpack how youth workers can recognize spiritual desolation in themselves and in their students, respond with patience and presence rather than quick fixes, and build healthier ministry cultures that allow vulnerability and support. The conversation ultimately points toward hope—trusting that even in fruitless, confusing, and silent seasons, God is still at work forming leaders, students, and communities for deeper faithfulness.

RESOURCES.
Teenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders by Monica Kim and Danny Kwon
Making Space for Encouragement in Youth Ministry
Pushing Back on the Loneliness Epidemic Among Young People - Rooted Ministry

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.

Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Reflections on the 2025 Rooted Conference

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we unpack on-the-ground insights from Rooted’s 15th Annual conference in Lake Forest, Illinois. Join Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence for this reflection from the 2025 Rooted Conference.

Recent Release: Teenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders (Monica Kim & Danny Kwon)

Rooted Reservoir - Luke/Acts Curriculum (Free download for Lesson 1 guides)

Houston, TX folks: Mark your calendars for a youth workers’ training day on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Onboarding and Offboarding Youth Leaders

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re tackling a crucial but often overlooked part of ministry: onboarding and offboarding youth leaders. Bringing leaders onto the team well—and walking with them when it’s time to step away—can make all the difference for the health and sustainability of a ministry. We’ll share how we discern readiness, train and mentor new leaders, and care for them along the way. We’ll also dig into how to navigate transitions with grace—whether they’re healthy, painful, or somewhere in between.

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin Yi
Rooted Mentoring Programs

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.
Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Organizing Leadership Teams in Youth Ministry

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Effective youth ministry leadership is not about building the “perfect” team—it’s about cultivating a culture of trust, gospel-centered relationships, and shared mission. In this episode, join Dorothy, Justin, and Huey as these veteran youth pastors think and talk through organizational leadership teams in youth ministry. In Asian American church contexts, this means paying attention not only to organizational structure but also to cultural dynamics that shape how teams serve and grow together.

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin Yi

Rooted Mentoring Programs

Rooted Conference’s Asian American Pre-Conference Preview

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Join us in Chicago, October 23-25, 2025, for our annual gospel-centered youth ministry conference! Sign-up and scope out the workshops.

Sign-up for the Asian American Pre-Conference lunch gathering ($35).

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin Yi

Rooted Mentoring Programs

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.

Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Rooted Conference Hopes & Expectations

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, as we ramp up for this year’s Rooted Conference, Huey, Terrence, and Dorothy share their past experiences with Rooted Conferences. We’ll hear what they’ve most enjoyed, appreciated, and gleaned. They’ll share what makes this conference distinct from other ministry conferences. Finally, we’ll share more details about our upcoming conference as we study The Church in Acts and explore a wide array of workshop topics.

Gospel-Centered and Grace-Filled: Experiencing the Rooted Conference by Mary Beth Johnston

The Importance of Ministry Friends by Connor Coskery

Check out our Conference Webpage to sign-up and scope out the workshops. We can’t wait to see you in Chicago, October 23-25!

Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Summer Swing, Part 2—Back to School and So Much More

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The Back to School grind is real! In this episode of the AAYM Roundtable, Terrence talks with Dorothy and Justin about their preparation and priorities to maximize disciple-making. Along the way, the three share many practical nuggets of wisdom, as well as their pastoral burdens for local churches from an Asian-American context.

A Back to School Checklist for Youth Ministers
You Can’t Do This Alone: Recruiting and Retaining Youth Leaders by Zac Lusk
Nurturing a Youth Ministry Culture that Fosters Intergenerational Ministry with Danny Kwon
The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition

Get more info and register for the Rooted 2025 Conference (10/23-25) in Dorothy’s home city!

Summer Swing, Part 1 - Retreats and Rest

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

So much happens in youth ministry during the summer months that it can become a busy blur. Terrence hosts this conversation with Justin and Dorothy, focusing on the specifics of retreat planning and the how-tos of establishing healthy personal rhythms. The three practitioners conclude with encouragements for youth ministers to take care of themselves so they can persevere joyfully for the long-run.

RESOURCES

Rooted Podcast: Maximizing Summer Youth Ministry: Balancing Activity and Rest

Practical Advice for Planning Your Next Youth Retreat by Josh Hussung

How I Handle Discipline on a Youth Retreat or Trip by Ryan Oakes

The Practical and the Personal: Keeping Up With Students After a Trip or Retreat by Rebecca Lankford

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition

Seasons of Discernment: Looking for that Next Youth Ministry Position (Pt. 2 - Expectations)

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 14:26:12 +0000

Part two of the "Seasons of Discernment" series delves into the expectations surrounding youth ministry searches, particularly within Asian American congregations. The roundtable discussion explores both the spoken and the unspoken expectations that churches have for prospective youth pastors, including program development, cultural sensitivities, and familial integration. The team also emphasizes the importance for candidates to discern these expectations through careful observation and insightful questions. Furthermore, the conversation addresses the expectations youth pastors should have of a church, such as adequate support and clarity on the role, encouraging proactive inquiry during the hiring process to ensure vision alignment and a healthy working relationship.

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

quotes:

Timestamps:
(0:37) Introductions
(3:10) Dorothy answers, “What is one thing you wish someone told you before the youth ministry search?”
(5:12) “I wish someone told me that I could ask questions. When I first began in youth ministry, I felt like I had to prove myself to the church.” - Huey
(17:13) “It’s important that you have a sense of self-awareness that you can receive feedback yourself.” - Dorothy
(18:51) Huey answers, “What were some expectations that Asian American churches put on youth pastors?”
(22:18) “The initial job description was 3-pages long” - Dorothy
(27:08) “When do you ask about compensation?”

Seasons of Discernment: Looking for that Next Youth Ministry Position (Pt. 1 - Healthy Churches)

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This month's AAYM Roundtable delves into the crucial process of discerning and navigating the application journey when seeking a new role as a youth minister, director, or pastor. Our discussion centers on the lessons learned during this significant period of vocational transition, particularly the critical steps involved before accepting a position. This episode, the first in a series, specifically focuses on the essential considerations for identifying and evaluating healthy church environments as a key aspect of the discernment process. We will explore the characteristics of thriving ministry contexts and offer practical guidance for candidates as they prayerfully consider their next steps in youth ministry leadership.

Resources:

Follow @therootedministry

Join us in Chicago, October 23-25, 2025, for our annual gospel-centered youth ministry conference!

If you are new to family ministry, check out our Family Ministry Mentoring Program.

Subscribe to the Asian American Youth Ministry podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Asian-American Mentorship Cohort - Pastoral Encouragement

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Mon, 7 Jul 2025 21:55:10 +0000

Mentorship matters, especially for youth ministers and leaders in their first 3 years of ministry. In this episode of the Asian-American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence interviews 3 mentees who serve in diverse contexts in the US and Canada. They share candidly about their call to ministry and the joys and hardships of pursuing the next generation with the Gospel.

SCRIPTURE

Proverbs 13:20

Matthew 28:19-20

Titus 2:7-8

1 Peter 5:2-3

RESOURCES

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition

When You Feel Like a Misfit as a Female Youth Minister by Mimi Lam

How Does the Gospel Help Teenagers Reconcile Their Asian American Cultural Heritage?

How Do You Structure Your Youth Ministry in the Asian American Church? (Part I)

How Do You Structure Your Youth Ministry in the Asian American Church? (Part II)

New cohort starts August 2025

Please rate and review the Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!

Join us at our Asian- American Pre Conference in Chicago, October 23-25!

The Personal Experience of Participation in a Mentorship Cohort

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:52:39 +0000

Mentorship matters, especially for youth ministers and leaders in their first 3 years of ministry. In this episode of the Asian-American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence interviews 3 gifted mentees of the inaugural Rooted Asian-American Mentorship Cohort who are 9 months into their 1-year journey. They share valuable insights and reflections from their experiences that highlight the impact this cohort has made for personal and pastoral growth.

RESOURCES

AAYM Roundtable: Mentoring, Part 1

AAYM Roundtable: Mentoring, Part 2

Disconnection and Gen Z: Searching for Trustworthy Mentors by Joey Turner

Why Youth Ministry Mentorship Matters by Tucker Fleming

New cohort starts August 2025

Please rate and review the Rooted Parent Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!

Join us at our Asian- American Pre Conference in Chicago, October 23-25!

Mentoring Asian American Boys to Men

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Fri, 6 Jun 2025 17:34:28 +0000

In this episode Huey, Justin, and Terrence delve into what it takes to mentor boys in Asian American Youth Ministry contexts so that they might grow and thrive as young men. They discuss what mentoring can look like both informally and systematically.

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

Faithfulness and Fruitfulness in Asian American Youth Ministry

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Fri, 16 May 2025 14:17:46 +0000

In this episode Huey, Justin, and Terrence share their thoughts on staying faithful and fruitful in youth ministry. They respond to questions regarding the challenges, benefits and opportunities of laboring for the faith of the next generation Kingdom over the long haul.

Join us in Chicago for the Asian American Preconference just before our annual conference October 23-25.

Please rate, review, and subscribe to the Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Long-Term Missions Partnerships

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Thu, 1 May 2025 13:33:36 +0000

In this episode Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence dive into how youth ministries and their churches may strive for long-term missions partnerships that may provide students the exposure and opportunity to share the gospel of Christ, locally and globally. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Partnerships With Other Youth Ministries

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:50:02 +0000

In this episode Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence delve into what’s entailed for local church youth ministry collaborations. They respond to questions regarding the benefits and complexities of such and incorporate anecdotes of how the Lord has refined, enhanced, and pruned these efforts and the fruit which have come from them. Follow this podcast on Apple Podcast or Spotify. You can also find us on IG @therootedministry. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Mentoring, Part 2

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Tue, 1 Apr 2025 16:34:12 +0000

n this episode, Huey, Dorothy, and Terrence explore mentorship by expounding on both sides of the relationship. They respond to questions related to both mentors and mentees and weave in personal examples of how God used people in their lives to shape and encourage them powerfully. Follow us @rootedministry! Join us in Chicago October 23-25, 2025 for our annual Rooted Conference! Rooted offers mentoring cohorts for both youth pastors and family pastors. Join us! Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Mentoring, Part One

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:06:23 +0000

In this episode, Huey, Dorothy, and Terrence dive into the topic of mentoring from their pastoral experiences in the Asian-American context. Together, they survey the lay of the land from their upbringings to the present and point to the priority of mentorship as an essential means of disciple-making for the next generation. Join a Rooted Ministry Mentoring Cohort! Mentoring and the Rooted Youth Pastor Mentoring Cohorts Follow us @rootedministry. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Youth Ministry & Dating in the Asian American Church // Part 2

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Fri, 7 Mar 2025 16:53:40 +0000

This episode delves into the nuanced topic of dating among Asian American youth in the church, exploring how cultural and spiritual influences shape their views on relationships. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates! Follow and subscribe to Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Youth Ministry & Dating in the Asian American Church // Part 1

emily@rootedministry.com (Terrence Shay, Dorothy Lau, Justin Wong) — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This episode delves into the nuanced topic of dating among Asian American youth in the church, exploring how cultural and spiritual influences shape their views on relationships.

Resources:

More to the Story: Deep Answers to Real Questions on Attraction, Identity, and Relationships (Christian book for teens about sexuality, sex, dating, gender, youth ministry resource) by Jennifer M. Kvamme.
A Letter to the Lonely Teenager on Valentine’s Day by Rachel Cain.
Talking Back to Purity Culture: Rediscovering Faithful Christian Sexuality by Rachel Joy Welcher

Part 2: Corporate Rhythms of Grace for Resting and Rejoicing in the Gospel

emily@rootedministry.com (Justin Wong, Terrence Shay, Huey Lee) — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 01:24:17 +0000

In this episode, Huey, Justin, and Terrence encourage youth pastors and leaders to establish and cultivate rhythms of grace in their groups that enable them to rest and rejoice in the gospel in the midst of challenges and complexities of life and ministry.

Resources:

Asian American Training Day

The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian-American Edition

Part 1: Personal Rhythms of Grace for Resting and Rejoicing in the Gospel

emily@rootedministry.com (Justin Wong, Huey Lee, Terrence Shay) — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Huey, Justin, and Terrence encourage youth pastors and leaders to establish and cultivate personal rhythms of grace that enable them to rest and rejoice in the gospel in the midst of challenges and complexities of life and ministry.

Youth and Family Ministry: Equipping Opportunities & Resources

emily@rootedministry.com (Terrence Shay, Dorothy Lau, Justin Wong) — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 21:27:57 +0000

In this episode, Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence talk about helpful youth and family ministry resources and equipping opportunities that have been meaningfully beneficial to their contexts.

Resources:

Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition.
Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

Rooted Conference Recap

emily@rootedministry.com (Justin Wong, Terrence Shay, Dorothy Lau) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:11:22 +0000

In this episode, Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence recap this past October’s Rooted Conference, which took place in Dallas, TX. The roundtable primarily reflects on the Asian American pre-conference event on ministry burnout, depression, and biblical rest. You’ll also listen in to their discussion some of the other workshops and hear their thoughts on the main sessions, all taught from the book of Daniel.

Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition.

Asian American Youth Ministry and Volunteers: Recruitment and Retention

emily@rootedministry.com (Terrence Shay, Dorothy Lau, Huey Lee) — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 01:11:42 +0000

Huey, Dorothy, and Terrence brainstorm volunteer recruitment and retention. The roundtable analyzes their contexts and then builds up a strategy focused on relationship-building that contributes to a healthy disciple-making culture.

Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

Asian American Youth Ministry and Volunteers: Expectations and Hardships

emily@rootedministry.com (Terrence Shay, Dorothy Lau, Huey Lee) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Terrence, Dorothy, and Huey share observations and insights about volunteers in the context of Asian-American youth ministry. The roundtable tackles expectations, challenges, and cultural shifts while sprinkling in personal anecdotes. The episode concludes with pastoral encouragements that connect with parent partnership.

Links:

Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition.
Join us for our Asian American preconference before the opening of our annual Rooted conference on October 24-26
Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

Asian American Youth Ministry Into the Future: Projections, Concerns, and Expectations

emily@rootedministry.com (Huey Lee, Justin Wong, Dorothy Lau) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Dorothy, Justin, and Huey come together and discuss how Asian American youth ministry looks toward the future with its exciting possibilities and pressing challenges coming into focus. From navigating an increasingly diverse cultural landscape to leveraging technology for faith formation, the future holds both promise and uncertainty. Key concerns such as mental health, identity, and retention will shape the next generation of ministry, while emerging trends in social justice and leadership offer new opportunities. This conversation will explore what’s on the horizon for Asian American youth ministry and how it can continue to nurture strong, faith-filled leaders for the future.

Resources:

Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition.
Join us for our Asian American preconference before the opening of our annual Rooted conference October 24-26
Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

Asian American Youth Ministry Over the Years: Trends, Challenges, & Opportunities

emily@rootedministry.com (Huey Lee, Justin Wong, Dorothy Lau) — Tue, 8 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Justin, Huey, and Dorothy discuss how Asian American youth ministry has evolved, reflecting the cultural, social, and spiritual dynamics of a diverse community. They talk about navigating the generational gap between immigrant parents and American-born children, as well as addressing the pressures of identity. They also discuss embracing opportunities for growth. Looking back at key trends and anticipating future possibilities, our panel acknowledges how Asian American youth ministry continues to shape a vibrant, gospel-driven generation ready to make a lasting impact.

Timestamps:

Youth Ministry Trends and Cultural Shifts (4:19)
Technology's Impact on Students' Lives and Critical Thinking (13:11)
What are some challenges back then that we have remedied now? (22:25)
Youth Ministry Traditions and Community Engagement (29:24)

Resources:

Order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition, released September 30!
Join us for our Asian American preconference before the opening of our annual Rooted conference October 24-26
Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

What Makes Asian American Youth Ministry Challenging?

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny, Rooted’s Senior Director of Youth Ministry Content and Cross Cultural Ministry, again sits down with the new Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable panelist Dorothy Lau, Huey Lee, Justin Wong, and Terrence Shay. Together they discuss some unique challenges and difficulties to doing youth ministry in an Asian American context. Our panelists also discuss their hopes for this podcast and, more generally, for those serving in Asian American youth ministry contexts.

Resources:

What Youth Workers Need to Know About Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by Danny Kwon
Pre-order The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School Asian American Edition, coming out September 30!
Join us for our Asian American preconference before the opening of our annual Rooted conference October 24-26
Asian American Ministry Resources on Rooted

Introducing: Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable

emily@rootedministry.com (Rooted Youth Ministry) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 20:45:41 +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.

What is Asian American Youth Ministry?

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Danny Kwon, Rooted’s Senior Director of Youth Ministry Content and Cross Cultural Ministry sits down with the new Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable panelists Dorothy Lau, Huey Lee, Justin Wong, and Terrence Shay, to discuss the topic of Asian American Youth Ministry. They discuss what makes ministering to Asian American students unique from doing youth ministry in other contexts, as well as offering some encouragement for those serving youth in Asian American contexts.