09 May 2012 UB Youth Workers Summit

Bobby Culler (right), Chairman, Youth Task Force; Youth Minister of Mount Pleasant Church, Chambersburg, Pa.

Youth Workers from across UBdom gathered just outside Daytona Beach, Fla., for the 2012 Youth Summit. Our theme this year was “FUSION – Establishing Meaningful Connections for Ministry Effectiveness.” Throughout the week we had the opportunity to strengthen the connection that we have with others in the trenches of youth ministry as well as the connection we have with our Lord.

Our keynote speaker was Dr. James Stump, professor of philosophy at Bethel College in Mishawaka, Ind. He walked us through a variety of spiritual disciplines, and challenged our thinking by looking at “10 Propositions.” We served together (in a variety of service projects); we worshipped together (during our sessions); we laughed together (in the midst our free time); and we learned together (during our roundtable discussions).

This week has always proved to be a much-needed, timely break from the normal pace of youth ministry. The timing of the Youth Summit–May–is important, because at this time of year, many youth workers are drained. We have guys walk into the Youth Summit who are ready to hang up their cleats; they’re done. But all they really need is a break. Youth workers are spent from the year of ministry and just need a break and a chance to refocus, and to know everybody else is in the same boat. The Youth Summit provides a time of refreshment and refueling as we endeavor to finish out another school year of ministry.

Over the years, the number of participants has increased. But beyond that, the event has stayed much the same. We provide some teaching on the personal or practical side, but more than anything, it’s just a chance to let your hair down, relax, and chat.

It is a privilege and an honor, and a huge responsibility and calling, that God has placed on our lives to minister to this generation of students. We want to do that with as much excellence as possible for the glory of God. And this event, the Youth Summit, encourages us and motivates us and helps us be more effective in our ministry.

Plan to be with us next year, April 29 – May 2, 2013, in Holly Hill, Florida.