The Youth Worker Summit provides resources for enriching the lives and ministry of all involved. Each day promises unique opportunities for refreshing old skills, and to be equipped with new ones. From the most seasoned youth ministry veteran, to the new volunteer youth worker - we all have something to learn, and we all bring something to share.
Plenary
In addition to inspirational leadership in worship, Rodger Nishioka will lead us in two plenary sessions on Friday. Rodger brings extensive expertise in youth and young adult ministry, having served as denominational staff for the Presbyterian Church (USA) as well as faculty at Columbia Theological Seminary.
Workshops
Participants will have opportunities on two different days to attend a workshop related to the many issues currently surrounding youth ministry. Workshops will provide opportunity for dialogue and resource sharing. Experienced leaders from across the US (including Phyllis Tickle!) will share their skills and knowledge of their related topic. See a full list of workshops.
Affinity Groups
Participants gather in small groups based on common interest and ministry context. In your affinity group you will have opportunities to dialogue with your peers, exchange ideas for ministry, and encourage one another. This will be a wonderful opportunity for networking and sharing. Examples of groupings may include: new to youth Ministry, long-timers, urban ministry, small church, etc. You will be able to choose from an available list of groups when you register online.
Disney Youth Education Series
Disney Youth Education Series transports students inside and behind-the-scenes of Walt Disney World® Theme Parks to showcase educational principles. Disney Y.E.S. field studies allow students to do things they can’t do anywhere else in the world! Several of these programs can have Christian Education implications, such as Millennium Cultures which discusses aspects of culture from around the world, and The American Story which looks at our nation’s founding and our struggles through slavery. On Thursday, Y.E.S. facilitators will take us on a familiarization tour of their programs to let us see if these might be useful to our local ministries. Oh, and don't forget about the free ticket!
