Global Youth Ministry Network - Asia

“Do you have a missions mindset incorporated in your training programs?” I was recently asked by a fellow youth minister.

We are focused on training youth leaders… but missions is the drive. And that’s how it’s been from the start, ever since Chris came back from the Dominican Republic with the thought “Wouldn’t it be great to come back here again to teach others about youth ministry?”

I think it’s no coincidence one of the first things we talk about in our trainings is what we call the Great Commission of youth ministry. Or that we conclude our trainings on the words of Christ Jesus: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations.”

Our aim is not just to train, but to see those we’ve trained implement the lessons, and reach the point where they are also able to teach others who need it. And it’s not just a hope, we’re seeing youth leaders catching the vision and going beyond their comfort zones in the Philippines and throughout Asia.  Incredibly, the countries where we are seeing the greatest impact and proliferation of our training now in Asia are in nations that acknowledge the Gospel message the least.

I’ve been reminded of that mission focus again and again through the course of the ministry here. Just the little things, a short video shown in one session, an announcement by someone or a realization that I’ve just been with someone who can reach out to a people group I’ve only read in books. These make me realize how vast the scope, how small we are and how great God’s plan is that he would involve us.

And yes, it is great to be involved in teaching others beyond our local region about youth ministry.