Loving God, Loving Neighbor: Ministry with Searching Youth

In almost every congregation, there is a searching youth who is somehow different from the rest, one who thinks more deeply, asks more questions, and wants to make a difference in the world. This young person may be seen as a loner, an upstart, or someone who does not fi t. Youth workers may not know what to do with these inquisitive youth, and a youth program that meets the congregation's expectations probably won't connect with the needs and interests of searching youth. Eventually, searching youth turn into searching adults who continue to "stir things up" and enrich the life of our congregations with their questions, insights, witness, and service.

These young people have the capacity and ability to provide signifi cant leadership in our congregations now and in the future. Because of their unique gifts, we are offering this book as a resource for pastors, teachers, and youth leaders who work with them. In this book, faculty members, students, and recent graduates of Saint Paul School of Theology look through the eyes of their academic disciplines and ministry experience to explore the foundations for ministry with searching youth and to offer designs for your ministry.