Bijan Mirtolooi: Union with Christ: What It Is, and Why It Matters for Youth Ministry

Rooted Ministry

Bijan Mirtolooi: Union with Christ: What It Is, and Why It Matters for Youth Ministry

One of the most important doctrines of the New Testament is also one of the most overlooked: union with Christ. Far from being an abstract set of ideas, union with Christ is the foundation for living a vibrant Christian life with hope, purpose, and a stable identity. After defining what union with Christ is, this workshop will explore the practical ways union with Christ is storehouse of rich resources for youth ministry today.

Scott Sauls: Creating Belonging in an Age of Judgement, Isolation, and Fear

Scott Sauls

At a time when our country is increasingly polarized and antagonistic, this workshop from our 2018 conference in Nashville helps parents and youth ministers explore why and how we engage in true and meaningful friendship with people who are damaged, difficult, or simply different. Sauls explores Biblical texts that teach us to “love across the lines of our differences,” to go beyond the superficial and transactional acquaintances that so often pass for friendship, and to embrace others with love that is sacrificial and life-giving. Parents and ministers explore how to enrich their own friendships and to encourage teens to do the same.

Julie Sparkman: When A Good Desire Becomes a False God

Each of us longs for our children to have a passion for Christ, healthy relationships, and success at school. All of these things are good and healthy desires, but when parents lose sight of the gospel, these good things become idols. In the workshop we will explore how the gospel leads us to repentance and rest, setting us free to love our children with healed hearts.

Kevin Twit: The Formative Power Of Worship Songs And Why It Matters

Typically we think of singing in worship as a time merely for expressing our hearts. But what if the songs we sing are shaping our understanding of the Christian life? If this is true, how might it effect the kinds of songs we sing?