These are words the youth ministry world dearly needs to take to heart.
Brian (one of the posters) correctly noted that one of the benefits of four youth workers sharing how our theological views affect how we "do" youth ministry is that we can gain an appreciation for one another's traditions. I echo that sentiment, but I believe the main benefit is this: we learn that our theology has a profound impact on our methods of ministry.
Poor theology will always lead to poor youth ministry.
For this reason, I have resisted editorializing on my fellow youth worker's thoughts that have been so kind to take the time and share about their beliefs about God and their practices of youth ministry. Obviously, the four of us agree on some points but disagree on others. What I hope will stick with readers is that as we can't have a good discussion about the methods and philosophy of youth ministry if we are unsure of what we believe about God, the nature of humanity, and how it all fits together.
To my friends who shared their thoughts here: thank you. I encourage readers to check out the whole series of essays (these aren't quick 500-word posts) and read them when you have time to digest them:
Theology and Youth Ministry - Beginning the Discussion
Theology and Youth Ministry - Brian Kirk (Progressive Christianity)
Theology and Youth Ministry - Paul Martin (Anglicanism)
Theology and Youth Ministry - Chris Wesley (Roman Catholicism)
Theology and Youth Ministry - Benjer McVeigh (Evangelicalism)
Update: I've created a page to keep track of the expanding list of Theology and Youth Ministry posts here.
Above all, I encourage you to have a relentless passion for knowing God. Only then can you have a relentless--and well-guided--passion for youth ministry.
