Serving as a youth advisor is about more than just making sure things run smoothly during youth group or at a conference. Advisors contribute to faith- and spirit-centered, multigenerational, multicultural, congregationally rooted ministry to and with youth. To help with this, Youth Ministry Advising offers a full complement of tools and strategies for youth advisors and religious educators, ministers, and other adults who are committed to this dynamic vision of ministry. This complete guide covers a wide range of topics, including how to recruit and support youth advisors, the essentials of youth group management, the roles of youth and advisors in creating a safer space, leadership training, and programming and project ideas. Significantly revised, this second edition includes up-to-date best practices as well as expanded guidance on fostering multicultural and anti-oppressive youth programs.
The Lifespan Faith Engagement staff team of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) puts a justice seeking, radically inclusive faith in action by creating experiences for meaning-making and faithful living, accompanying people to make a home in our faith, and advocating for youth engagement and lifespan faith development.
Youth Ministry and You
The Role of an Advisor
Creating a Safer Group
Unitarian Universalist Youth
Youth in Faithful Leadership
Youth Ministry Nuts and Bolts
Creating a Balanced Program
Religious Education Programs
Supporting Youth Advisors
Resources
“Youth ministry is the responsibility of every Unitarian Universalist. That’s the charge that emerged from the Unitarian Universalist Association’s multi-year Consultation on Ministry to and with Youth. From the board chair to the Sunday morning greeters, from the youth advisor to the choir director, from the church staff to those who attend congregational events, all have a responsibility for creating space that recognizes youth as full, valued members of our communities and supports them as they engage with their faith. Choosing to serve as a youth advisor is one of many ways that adults in our congregations demonstrate their commitment to youth.
Youth advisors fit a wide range of personality types, skill sets, and talents. The title itself can fit a number of different roles, and can include religious educators, ministers, and other religious professionals. However, all youth advisors should feel comfortable being an adult role model for youth, helping to mentor and guide them in your congregation. It’s more than just making sure things run smoothly during a meeting. By serving as an advisor, you are part of a vision that calls for faith- and spirit-centered, multigenerational, multicultural, congregationally rooted ministry to and with youth.”
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