Youth Ministry Units

Many students who enter youth ministry having done a lot of study but are soon asking themselves – “How do I now run my youth ministry?” In this subject we put it all together, theology, Bible knowledge, and practical skills – and ask the question “How are we going to lead youth ministry?”

Leading youth ministry is more than understanding the Bible and having a good theology. It requires vision, planning, an understanding of organisational dynamics, and the ability in any given context to provide a relevant expression of a youth ministry while maintaining the core values of what a youth ministry should be.

This unit covers areas such as; developing values, visions and strategies, organisational approaches and leadership styles, dealing with change and reviewing progress.

However, the goal of this unit is for each student to have developed their own philosophy and strategy for youth ministry so that at the completion of the unit they have a framework for approaching, developing and leading ministry with confidence.

Pastoral ministry demands training in pastoral skills, which are based on a sound theology and which can adapt to the expectations of a variety of ministry contexts. This unit prepares the student practically for the realities of pastoral work in local churches, youth ministries, and a variety of other contexts. By completing this unit students will be able to integrate a knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of many aspects of Christian ministry. The practical aspects covered include:

• leading worship services
• conducting weddings, funerals, dedications, baptisms,
• pastoral administration
• leading small groups
• Elders, board and committee meetings.