Customer Reviews

Building Community in Youth Groups

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Rydberg has compiled activities which should be required reading for youth group leaders, and a mainstay in every church library. Actually, because of its versatility and adaptability, it is useful for anyone who works with and/or leads groups of most any age.

The book contains a variety of activities that can be used as the author intends, or, as I have found, can be easily adapted to your particular group and group interests. The activities can be used effectively over a period of time to strengthen group dynamics and intimacy, or used on short notice to change the pace of a meeting.

"Building Community" is extremely user friendly and ought to be used within a variety of situations and circumstances. All activities (and there are plenty of activities in this book) are each listed concisely which adds to their functionality. Rydberg assists with the group dynamic process by developing a short list of relevant and adaptable questions of the end of each activity. As well, each chapter progessively "ups the ante" with group dynamics, requiring more of the individuals who are involved to contribute in the way that most accomodates their learning style. This leads to an intense and personal formation of the group.

One of the best things about this book is that you may very well be surprised at when and where you will use it. It is a book that you will WANT to put down, just to participate in the fabulous activities it presents. Its creativity, functionality, adaptability, flexibility, and desired results make this book a valuable addition to any personal library. Happy Group Building!

The last reviewer prety much covered it all. Next to the Bible itself, this is the book I use the most inmy youth ministry.

I found this book when I began my ministry with young people and have continued to use it each and every year. Rydberg's insight and ideas are a great place to begin.

My only complaint is that the activities mention do not really fit in with specific scripture passages. This is hard for me since I like to start with the scripture and work backward to activities. The activities themselves are great, though.