I compiled a list of ideas for service projects, games, events, and more–enough for each day of Christmas.I’ve used all of these ideas in some way over the last six years, both in small groups and large groups. I combine many ideas into our yearly Overnighter, and plan to use them this month!

Check out the post over at YouthWorker Journal! http://www.youthworker.com/25-christmas-activity-ideas/

As people who dedicate our lives ministering to students, sometimes we believe we know the best for them. I had a humbling encounter with a parent who I judged harshly, and it has changed my life.

Read about it here at YouthWorker Journal: http://www.youthworker.com/walking-in-the-shoes-of-a-parent/

It’s a new school year, which means that lots of families are checking out new churches for their teenagers.

We used to not be very good at welcoming new visitors or friends brought by our students, but since we’ve made some simple changes, we’re seeing a changed atmosphere and a new passion for inviting.

Read more about the changes we made over at YouthWorker Journal: http://www.youthworker.com/welcoming-new-students/

Over the past few years, as our team has discussed how to make church life translate to busy parents, we’ve gotten more intelligent about the way we kick off the school year. Click here to read more! 

My latest post is over at YouthWorker Journal–on the best practice I’ve found to get better at teaching: video-taping yourself.

You can find the link here: http://www.youthworker.com/youth-culture/up-your-speaking-game/

I LOVE OVERNIGHTERS. They are exhausting, though. How can you hack a great evening? Check that out here: http://www.youthworker.com/programming/7-overnighter-themes-that-will-up-your-game/