Here are some of the cultural trends that youth workers are likely to face this fall as they open their fall youth ministries.

With our society prioritizing academic, athletic and extra-curricular success — this often means parents and students leave no margin for faith and fellowship — what can we do to address this issue?

A recent report stated that the average church in America has about 75 people, 4 of whom are teenagers. So where does this impactful youth group come from?

Will the status quo of family ministry continue to reach families of this generation?

A debate is raging in some Christian circles about a perceived lack of a Biblical basis for youth ministry. Some are blaming youth work for the much-reported departure of young adults from the church following high school.

My observation from visiting almost 30 churches per year for the last 30-plus years has revealed that ministering to college age, young adults may be the weakest area of ministry in many, many local churches.

The rise of “spiritual orphans” in our communities is a reflection of the true state of the family in today’s American culture.

Are your teenagers more loyal to your youth group or to the church?

The generation gap doesn’t have to get any wider. In fact, it’s time to help close that gap in the church – and older people can do much to encourage today’s young people in their own personal walk with God by implementing these simple strategy steps.

So, what can Christian parents do to help their children to grow up and go on for God? I am convinced that we must look to the Scriptures for the answers!

A recent report stated that the average church in America has about 80 people, 4 of whom are teenagers.

What if youth ministry is doing things right? The constructive characteristics of youth ministry may be the exact things that would help keep them in church as young adults.

Youth workers can have a real impact on the lives of impressionable youth, but our most effective long-term ministry may indeed be our entrance into the lives and hearts of parents.

The apostle Paul had it right when he challenged his student, Timothy, to “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).