Customer Reviews

OMG: A Youth Ministry Handbook (Youth and Theology)

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OMG states that "faithful ministry requires us to be awake to the conditions of people's lives and the contexts surrounding the young people Christ calls us to address" and takes these two concepts to task.

Not only does this book challenge one to think about "why they do what they do" and "what could be done differently" in light of the realities of the youth that one ministers to, for and with, but it also engages various contextual perspectives because hey, let's face it--no two youth ministries are a like!

I am passionate about urban ministry and I found plenty to chew on(which is rare in much of what is published on youth ministry today)!

"First don't panic." This is one of the earliest lines of the book and seems to be an underlying theme. In the world of youth ministry where scare tactics can run rampant and culture can be demonized, OMG offers hope. This book provides a realistic look at youth and the church and offers hope at the same time. Yes, the world of youth ministry can be scary and overwhelming, but God is actively moving. So, "First don't panic."

Too often we have to choose between "well-researched books" and "readable books." The books that are well-researched aren't necessarily readable, and they books that are easy to read are not always well-researched. I was struck by the academic research that went into this book as well as its readability. This book can truly be enjoyed by pastors and academics alike.

If you buy this book (and if you're connected with youth ministry I recommend that you do), make sure that you check out the Appendices. The Study of Exemplary Congregations in Youth Ministry provides assessments for "Developing Spiritually Mature Youth." This can serve as a helpful "checklist" for anyone wanting to assess their own ministry.

I have already read and recommended this resource to multiple youth ministers. As a youth minister myself I am grateful for the way this book engages current statistics on the faith of youth and translates them for those in the field. It both challenges and gives hope for those in youth ministry with concrete example of real churches and an honest assessment of the current state of youth ministry.

it was in great condition just as described! Great time in getting here and it didn't have any worn edges or anything.