The Next 50 Years

Christianity Today has just released a very brief, yet good article on what evangelical leaders are saying are priorities for the next 50 years of youth ministry. Check it out here.

I especially appreciated Chap Clark's contribution, "The greatest challenge is developing 'a theology of intergenerational community' that helps a whole church to feel responsible for its youth. Otherwise, he said, churches follow mainstream culture's market-driven vision—and, like secular culture, abandon adolescents to raise themselves."

Mark Oestreicher, Youth Specialties president, is quoted as well, and has a good discussion on the article going on over at his blog.

I am encouraged by the discussion and continual re-thinking of how we pursue youth ministry. It is my hope and prayer that it doesnt take the church 50 years to get where we should be.