A much needed source of information and Biblical solutions for dealing with the struggles and pitfalls of urban youth ministry--peer pressure, street violence, sexual activity, drug abuse, and more.

Fernando Arzola Jr. addresses the gap in the literature of youth ministry resources conceived and realized in an urban setting. He brings together three dominant paradigms--traditional, liberal and activist--to create an approach that is informed by Scripture and the contemporary realities of adolescent development in an urban setting.

Our nation used to look at violence, poverty, and gentrification and assign those problems to urban centers. Today, these issues concern the suburbs, too. The Christian community is responding to this reality. Churches and parachurch ministries are actively working to transform lives and restore communities throughout the city and suburbs. In A Heart for the Community: New Models for Urban and Suburban Ministry, you will be challenged by a collection of voices seeking community renewal. These individuals are involved in creative church planting initiatives, and they are serving the growing Hispanic and Muslim populations. Additional endeavors include serving racially changing communities, economic development strategies, and more. As anyone who has been in ministry for any length of time can attest, tackling some of the most challenging issues of our times is no mere academic exercise. The voices within these pages write from experience and offer workable, vibrant models of ministry that make a difference.

An Innovative Approach to Urban Ministry

The Urban Guide to Youth Ministry is a holistic leadership guide to equip you with the inspiration, information, skills and qualities you need to lead an outstanding youth ministry. Bobby Hampton Jr. packed this book with practical insights that breaks down the broad subject of youth ministry into comprehensible components and simplistic formats that inspire, motivate and transform. Your talents will be awakened, your potential stirred and your skills honed so you can be the best youth leader you can be. The leadership principles and qualities taught cut across every walk of life. Author Bobby L. Hampton Jr. is a successful youth leadership consultant who has led several youth ministries to greatness. He knows what it takes to build outstanding leaders and volunteers. He leads one of the fastest growing youth ministries in the nation, and he has poured out his heart on the subject in The Urban Guide for Youth Ministry. It will not only to transform your thinking but to lead you on the journey to becoming a leader in your home, your workplace, your church, your community and even your nation.