The many and continual advances in technology can be both exciting and daunting; exciting because of the multitude of opportunities at our grasp yet daunting when faced with the prospect of keeping up with and/or affording them. This holds true in youth ministry where, as youth workers, we serve a population that seems to be innately in tune with technology and what it offers. We're all technological users but much of our adult expertise pales before the intuitive use of our students. What do we do? Youth Ministry in a Technological Age seeks to offer a window into understanding and using technology in youth ministry that is grounded theologically. In this book, researchers and people involved in youth ministry share insights and make recommendations concerning how we approach and use technology in youth ministry, always recognizing our need to be faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Claire Smith

The many and continual advances in technology can be both exciting and daunting; exciting because of the multitude of opportunities at our grasp yet daunting when faced with the prospect of keeping up with and/or affording them. This holds true in youth ministry where, as youth workers, we serve a population that seems to be innately in tune with technology and what it offers. We’re all technological users but much of our adult expertise pales before the intuitive use of our students. What do we do? Youth Ministry in a Technological Age seeks to offer a window into understanding and using technology in youth ministry that is grounded theologically. In this book, researchers and people involved in youth ministry share insights and make recommendations concerning how we approach and use technology in youth ministry, always recognizing our need to be faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Claire Smith

David Bourgeois offers a step-by-step guide for discerning and implementing a digital strategy in your ministry. Presenting Christianity itself as a grand communication event, he helps Christians see that the advent of electronic media is truly good news for the world.

It's no secret that teenagers are perpetually connected via social media and mobile devices, but while we've analyzed as a culture how youth are connecting we've done less well at understanding why teenagers are drawn to the glow of the screen. Beyond the Screen explores the reality that teenagers use these technologies in desperate bid for an intimacy and depth of relationship largely absent from face-to-face society and the church. Employing the latest ethnographic research on youth and digital media in tandem with theological reflection and interviews with teens themselves, author Andrew Zirschky provides a deeper glimpse into the world of teens and social media and gives new direction and directives for ministering to Millennials.

This volume provides all who minister to young people with an effective blueprint for building a truly meaningful ministry

Do you know where your church's teens hang out? Chances are that they're hanging out virtual style. MySpace and IM have redefined how the typical teenager spends time with friends. And these technologies have important implications for today's youth leader. In this valuable resource from communication professor Peggy Kendall, find the answers to key questions: How do these technologies affect relationships and communication? What are the pros and cons of using this technologies in youth ministry? What practical skills are needed to integrate these technologies in ministry? Included in the book are: A summary of current research in reader-friendly terms, Real-life insights from teens who use IM and MySpace on a regular basis, Feedback and insight from youth pastors who use IM and MySpace in their ministry, Specific tips on IM and MySpace use. Book jacket.