Your Training Needs

By Doug Franklin October 18, 2011

Youth ministry conferences are fun and valuable for making connections and learning about new trends but many youth pastors want more. They want real training that can make a difference in their job performance. Many of us who went to traditional Christian colleges want training. The schools taught us philosophies of educations and ministry but never gave us real experience or even gave us a clue on how to do any practical ministry. So how do you find good solid training to help you grow in your ministry?  First you must know what you lack in order to find what you need. This takes self assessment and professional assessment. Ask yourself and trusted friends, what skills and knowledge do I need to grow in leadership and ministry? The reason I put the word leadership in this question is because to grow as a professional youth worker it often comes down to growing one’s leadership skills. Once you have a good understanding of your needs you will be able to find a training course or cohort to help you develop your ministry skills. Don’t take this step lightly’ most people know what they are good at but few know what they need skill training in. Don’t be blind to your real situation. Most youth ministry training is one-size fits all. Seek the truth about your skills, then you can make sure you are getting the right training.