The Youth Builder: Today's Resource for Relational Youth Ministry

Youth builder is a must book for all youth leaders and all who have a dealing with youth of our time. I recommend this book to all youth directors, social workers and in deed all who work for the interest of the youth in this present age.

Not too many books hold my attention the way "The Youth Builders" does, which I couldn't help but finish it in a matter of days. It is definitely a Youth Ministry "textbook" that can be referred to time and again! Not that all the points mentioned will work for all youth ministries, but many are basic starting points in which each ministry can start upon - definitely a must read for foundation building.

Jim Burns and Mike DeVries team together to write The Youth Builder, detailing the logistics and heart behind creating an effective and fulfilling youth ministry. One statement in particular touched my heart: "True ministry comes from the overflow of our passion and love relationship with Jesus, not from the overflow of our knowledge of youth ministry." With this philosophy on youth ministry running throughout the book, Burns and DeVries draw on their own experiences as well as knowledge of youth and programming to outline the various tasks that await successful youth ministers. Dividing their book in four sections-foundation, framework, programming and personal relationships-Burns and DeVries reminds the youth worker of the import of a clear vision, and underlying this, the heart and attitude essential for a vibrant ministry. Still, they also acknowledge the need for good budgeting, preparation, attention to logistical details, a support staff and raising new leadership. This book was an amazing read for me because it pinned all the essentials for a dynamic youth ministry. The sermon ideas were creative, the grounding of youth ministry in good organization was pragmatic and realistic and yet Burns and DeVries' emphasize the key need for passionate and genuine heart and spirit behind any ministry. While the reader learns essential tips to build a successful youth ministry, authenticity and genuine care and concern to bring youth to God is never forgotten and is constantly brought to the fore. It is no wonder the book is in its 4th printing. Though first written in 1973 the book is indeed timeless.

This is the best book ever written on youth ministry. This new addition is even better. The Youth Builder belongs in every youth workers library. I especially appreciated how practical it is and the material on small groups,

This in an excellent refrence for rookies and old pros to have around. Jim Burns composed a classic that has advice that is transferable from generation to generation. It is a "Must Have" as far as I'm concerned. Pass this book around for your youth sponsors and parents to read, it will help them understand just what it is that you do as a Youth Pastor.