I didn’t “read” this so much as I skimmed it, then gave a presentation on it.
The book was given to me by the middle school youth leader at Central Church. I’m a coach for the youth group leaders there, and she wanted me to do a training on it.
It’s a short book – the 167 pages is even deceptive, because there’s some really creative formatting there which takes up a bunch of space, and every chapter has question with journal space to answer them.
The book drives home five points:
- Be Present: Show up consistently, be ready to go, and show up in other places, outside of youth group
- Create a Safe Space: Lead the group, don’t let the group lead you, and be on the look out for kids that need more help
- Partner with Parents: Introduce yourself to the parents, let them know what you’re doing, and never throw them under the bus
- Make It Personal: Share your life with your group, and work on your on own spiritual life so you can better serve them
- Move Them Out: We prepared to pass them on to other leaders and other resources when necessary
It’s a solid book. Lots of good advice, and a good framework for thinking about it.
Reggie Joiner, Tom Shefchunas
167