Subscribe to the NetworkHey everyone -
Welcome to my recommended resources page! Here are some of the best of the best youth ministry resources I’ve used in my youth ministry experience so far. Some are home grown and written by friends, others are great resources from outside our church but that would work in any context. I’m thankful to be in the youth ministry journey with you!
UPDATE: Some new promo codes for the Simply Youth Ministry store that work all-August long when you stock up on small group stuff or leader training for the fall. Use spend100 or spend200 to get some big savings.
JG
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
Congratulations You’re Gifted – we did a series on this book by Doug Fields last year in HSM. The idea it to empower students to go beyond the weekend and small groups and discover their SHAPE (spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality and experience) and serve. If they don’t, they’ll SIT, SOAK and eventually SOUR! Get students involved in your ministry.
One Minute Bible for Students – this is a great resource to help encourage students to read their Bible a minute a day. In our weekend service, we’ve actually timed some readings to demonstrate the length of each reading. Our students love it! Of course, the goal isn’t SPEED, it is developing a heart for God, and giving them a tool to walk with him each day. Highly recommended, cheaper by the case.
Save the Planet – my first Sermon Series at Simply Youth Ministry. We talked about creation, the environment and how Jesus came to Save the Planet, too.
HABITS Production Pack - I love the philosophy to help students grow on their own. I don’t think a dependence on programs is ideal, as you’ve heard when students graduate from the program they often graduate from their faith. Less programs is a value, HABITS is one way of achieving it.
Speaking to Teenagers - A newer resource but sure to become a popular one. This is a super read for those doing the teaching on a regular basis. Read my full review of it here.
Igniter Videos – I ((heart)) multimedia! It always helps keep interest and there power in a great story or relief in a much needed laugh. It always works best when you make videos yourself, but that’s unlikely on a regular basis so where do you turn? Igniter is solid stuff to get you started.
What Matters Most – I read this quick book on a flight home once, and by the time I was finished I couldn’t wait to get my kids in my arms. This little book focuses on what matters most, and helps get you back on track. You know you should read it – make the time. Here’s my first reactions a year ago when I read it.
T-Minus Countdowns – Every single week we use a countdown timer. It signals students we’re about to start, helps volunteers know when to wrap up attention, and helps get the team to start on time. Get everyone on the same page – wouldn’t have a youth service without this helpful tool.
Small Groups from Start to Finish – My friend Matt McGill co-wrote this book on all of the ins and outs of small groups. They are super hard work – but worth it. If you’ve got a question about small groups, I guarantee it’ll be answered here.
