Models of Christian Leadership in Youth Ministry

Abstract

This article addresses four models of leadership that Christian communities may want to adopt to help them assess and articulate a more vibrant and dynamic youth ministry. In particular, this article will demonstrate that authentic Christian leadership for youth ministry is much more than teaching young people about pastoral skills, but requires a lifestyle that empowers adolescents to become responsible and genuine leaders in their schools, churches, neighborhoods, and communities.

Notes

The Scripture references and translations throughout this study will always come from the New American Bible unless otherwise noted.

The term praxis-based education refers to a pedagogy that is rooted in experiential learning. Praxis-based education provides young people with a tangible learning experienced based on service-learning and makes a lasting impact on their lives as they embark on this type of education. There are four dimensions of praxis-based education that help to shape and mold Christian identity, spirituality, and faith-formation in young people: (1) academic and pastoral reflection rooted in reality, (2) integrated community learning, (3) recollection and pedagogical accompaniment, and (4) formation of Christo-centric imagination. For further discussion on each of these four dimensions see Canales (2011, 83–84).

This is an approach known as the “Categorical Imperative,” developed by the German philosopher Immanuel Kant (1724–1803). In effect, the categorical imperative approaches morality on actions that occur because of desired goals founded in goodness, fairness, and justness. An act is moral only insofar as it is done for the sake of obligation for the good; and thus, it fulfills the categorical imperative or moral obligation. Christians ought to do the good, morally right thing, and make ethically upright decisions simply because it is the just and noble to do the good and part of Christian responsibility.

International Institute for Spiritual Leadership, “Spiritual Leadership Theory” (Harker Heights, TX: International Institute for Spiritual Leadership, 2011) www.iispiritualleadership.com/spiritualleadership. This is a world renowned think-tank of spiritual leadership scholars and researchers. To date, the International Institute for Spiritual Leadership has developed the only theory of spiritual leadership that has been extensively tested and validated in a variety of settings. Studies have been conducted in over 100 organizations including schools, military units, cities, police, and for profit organizations (sample sizes ranged from 10 to over 1,000).