BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: I’ve been working on something new for 2025!
Fresh Calling: Inspiring Youth Pastors to Lead with Purpose and Passion
After over 30 years in youth ministry, my heart is full as I share an exciting new chapter: the launch of Fresh Calling (freshcalling.org). This ministry is a culmination of decades of experience, joy, heartache, and countless moments of God’s faithfulness. It’s a way for me to pour into the next generation of youth pastors—to equip, inspire, and encourage those called to lead students in their walk with Christ.
No, I’m not leaving my current assignment here in West Tennessee. No, I’m not jumping out of youth ministry. Fresh Calling is an outpouring of a passion I’ve had for years to raise up the next generation of youth pastors and ministry leaders.
The Vision Behind Fresh Calling
Youth ministry can feel overwhelming and isolating at times. The weight of leading students, supporting families, and navigating your own spiritual life and family life can take its toll. Fresh Calling exists to remind youth pastors of the divine purpose behind their calling and to provide practical tools to help them fulfill it effectively.
This is more than just another resource for youth ministry; it’s a community. It’s a place where youth pastors can find encouragement, guidance, and camaraderie as they pursue God’s mission in their lives and ministries.
The tagline says it all: Equipping Your Calling for Transformative Ministry. Whether you’ve been in ministry for decades or you’re just starting out, Fresh Calling is here to help renew your vision, sharpen your skills, and empower you to make a lasting impact.
Coaching and Consulting
At the heart of Fresh Calling is the desire to walk alongside youth pastors through coaching and consulting. Over the years, I’ve learned that every ministry context is unique, yet the challenges we face often have similar roots. Through one-on-one coaching and team consulting, I’ll help you identify your ministry’s strengths, navigate obstacles, and create strategies for long-term growth and impact.
We’ll explore topics like:
- Prioritizing the spiritual health of the youth pastor.
- Building a healthy and sustainable ministry.
- Engaging students in a post-COVID world. (Especially Mental Health)
- Discipling students in their faith journey.
- Empowering volunteers and equipping leaders.
- and much more!
These sessions aren’t just about solving problems—they’re about discovering new opportunities to lead with purpose, passion, and authenticity.
The Fresh Calling Book
One of the most exciting parts of this journey is the upcoming publication of Fresh Calling in 2025. Yes, I’ve written a book and for many of you who know me well, this is not something I’ve ever thought about doing! (currently looking for publishers) This book will dive deep into the lessons I’ve learned over the years, blending biblical principles, practical advice, and personal stories. My hope is that it will be a source of encouragement and direction for youth pastors everywhere.
The book isn’t just about what’s worked for me—it’s about what God can do through you. It’s a reminder that your calling is sacred, and that even in the challenges, God’s faithfulness never fails.
Why Now?
The calling to launch Fresh Calling has been on my heart for years, but the time has never felt more urgent than it does now. The world our students live in is more complex and challenging than ever before. The rise of anxiety, social media’s grip on their identity, and the ever-shifting cultural landscape make it clear: our youth pastors need support like never before.
I want to give away what God has entrusted to me—the wisdom, the lessons, the failures, and the victories. I want to help you navigate the same calling that has shaped my life, so you can be faithful in leading the next generation.
Join the Fresh Calling Community
I’d love for you to be part of this journey. Here’s how you can connect:
- Visit the website at freshcalling.org.
- Sign up for coaching and consulting opportunities.
- Subscribe to my blog for up to date thoughts and encouragements.
- Subscribe to the Fresh Calling YouTube channel for practical tips and inspiring content.
- Stay tuned for updates about the Fresh Calling book.
Together, we’ll explore what it means to lead with purpose and to trust God fully in the ministry He’s entrusted to us.
A Final Word of Encouragement
To every youth pastor reading this: You are not alone. The work you’re doing matters deeply. You are planting seeds of faith, hope, and love that will bear fruit for eternity. My prayer for you is that Fresh Calling will be a resource and a refuge as you continue to follow the calling God has placed on your life.
The next chapter is here, and I’m excited to walk alongside you as we lead the next generation together.
Connecting with students on the wall.
I see them every week. Students who come in to the youth room, and just sit (or stand) on the wall immediately hiding behind their screens. Or, they walk in for 2 seconds, scan the room and turn around and walk out! They do not engage. Ever wonder why?
Coming out of a year like no other, many youth pastors face an unexpected challenge: students who are physically present but emotionally and socially distant. Post-COVID, these students often sit along the edges of your youth room, avoiding personal connection and staying glued to their screens. For some, this disengagement is a habit; for others, it’s rooted in something deeper—anxiety.
The Role of Anxiety
Anxiety has become a defining struggle for this generation. The isolation of the pandemic, combined with the pressures of social media and school, has left many students unsure how to engage with others. Walking into a room full of peers can feel overwhelming, and for some, sitting on the wall is their way of coping.
As youth pastors, understanding this dynamic is critical. These students aren’t rejecting community—they’re afraid of it. So, how do we reach them?
1. Create a Safe Space
Anxiety thrives in environments where students feel judged or pressured. Foster a culture of grace and acceptance in your youth group. This could mean setting the tone with leaders who model warmth and understanding or creating intentional moments where students can observe without being forced to participate.
2. Start Small
For anxious students, small steps are huge victories. Instead of inviting them into a large group activity right away, start with one-on-one or small group interactions. For example, invite them to join a game with just a few others or pair them with a trusted peer who can help them feel at ease.
3. Normalize Their Experience
Let students know they’re not alone in their struggles. Share stories of others who’ve dealt with similar challenges, or talk openly about how anxiety impacts relationships. When students feel understood, they’re more likely to take steps toward connection.
4. Use Gentle Encouragement
Instead of calling students out, gently invite them into activities. Phrases like, “Hey, we’d love to have you join us whenever you’re ready,” or “No pressure, but this could be fun if you’re interested,” give them permission to step in at their own pace.
5. Provide Anchors
Anchors are consistent elements that anxious students can rely on. This could be a leader they know will always say hello, a specific activity they enjoy, or even a favorite spot in the room. These small consistencies can help them feel safe enough to engage more deeply over time.
Questions for Reflection:
• Are you providing environments where anxious students feel seen and valued?
• How can you help students take small steps toward deeper relationships?
• In what ways can your leaders support students struggling with anxiety?
When Jesus encountered people on the fringes, He met them with compassion and patience. As youth pastors, we have the same opportunity. By recognizing the impact of anxiety and creating spaces of belonging, we can help students move from the wall to the center of community—and ultimately to the feet of Jesus.
Take heart, youth pastor. Each small step you take toward understanding and connecting with anxious students matters. I know you have these types of students in your group. I’d love hear how you connect these students getting them to engaged in your ministry. Comment below.
3 Commons Mistakes Every Youth Pastor Makes
3 Common Mistakes Youth Pastors Make in Ministry
Youth ministry is rewarding but challenging, and mistakes are part of the journey. Recognizing some common pitfalls can help youth pastors navigate ministry with greater effectiveness and joy. Here are three mistakes I’ve made —and some tips on how to avoid them.
1. Lone Ranger Syndrome
It’s easy to feel like you’re solely responsible for the spiritual growth of your students. This mindset often leads to burnout and isolation. Trying to handle everything—planning events, writing lessons, counseling students, running small groups—without a team is unsustainable.
Ministry isn’t meant to be a solo effort. Ecclesiastes 4:9 reminds us, “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts.” Build a team of committed leaders who share your vision. Equip and empower them to take ownership of key areas of ministry. Not only does this lighten your load, but it also fosters a culture of discipleship and collaboration.
2. Neglect Parent Perspectives
Youth pastors sometimes focus so much on students that they forget the crucial role parents play. Dismissing parents as out of touch or hard to work with is a mistake. Parents are not just part of the audience—they’re partners in ministry.
Parents spend far more time with their teenagers than you do. They shape their child’s values, decisions, and faith long after youth group ends. Partnering with parents by providing resources, regular communication, and encouragement strengthens the spiritual foundation being built at home.
Take time to listen to parents’ concerns and seek their input. Hosting parent meetings or sending out newsletters with ministry updates can go a long way in fostering trust and collaboration. When parents feel included, they’re more likely to support and pray for your ministry.
3. Devalue Relationships
Youth ministry can become consumed with programs, numbers, and events. While those have their place, focusing on them at the expense of relationships misses the heart of the gospel. Students don’t need a flashy show—they need authentic connections with leaders who reflect Christ’s love.
Jesus modeled relational ministry by investing in a small group of disciples, eating with them, listening to their questions, and walking through life with them. Similarly, your students need to know you care about them personally. Attending their sports games, remembering their prayer requests, or simply asking how their week went builds trust and opens the door for meaningful discipleship.
Challenge your team to prioritize relationships over programs. Remember, spiritual growth happens most often in the context of genuine, Christ-centered relationships.
Moving Forward:
Mistakes are inevitable, but they’re also opportunities for growth. Avoiding these common pitfalls will not only make your ministry more effective but also more joyful. By embracing teamwork, partnering with parents, and prioritizing relationships, you’ll create a ministry culture that reflects the heart of Christ and impacts students for eternity.
Nobody’s perfect! Good Lord, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes but how we use them to grow our leadership and ministry is crucial. Let’s talk about it. Schedule a 1on1 coaching session we me today.
Student-Led Ministry: Here are 5 reasons why you should give away the ministry to them!
Last night was our annual Christmas Party. Typically this night is pretty scripted and executed by our staff. But not last night! Oh we planned some things, but it was a “student-led night”, and it was chaotically fantastic! Students help decorate, serve food, M.C.’d the night, ran sound and cleaned up. The crowd of huge and boisterous. At about halfway through the night, I gave up the reins and quit trying to control it. I just sat down at one of the tables in the room and watched everything happen.
In youth ministry, it’s tempting to feel like we must have our hands on everything: planning events, leading small groups, preaching every message, and organizing every outreach. But what if the greatest impact we could have comes not from doing everything ourselves, but from empowering students to lead?
When we give the ministry away and invest in student-led ministry, we aren’t abdicating responsibility—we’re multiplying the work of the gospel. Here are five reasons why youth pastors and leaders should prioritize student-led ministry in their churches.
1. It Develops Ownership.
When students take an active role in ministry, they shift from being consumers to contributors. Leading worship, teaching a devotion, organizing a service project—these opportunities challenge students to apply their faith in real ways.
Ownership is key to long-term faith. If students never practice leadership in their formative years, they’ll graduate from youth group without understanding how to integrate their faith into everyday life. But when we invite them to lead, they experience firsthand how God can use them for His purposes.
Think about Paul’s encouragement to Timothy: “Don’t let anyone despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12, CSB).
Student-led ministry is about giving teenagers the space to live this out.
2. It Multiplies Ministry.
Even with the best team of adult volunteers, there’s a limit to what youth pastors can do alone. But when students are empowered to lead, the reach of your ministry multiplies exponentially.
Imagine the impact if every student became a leader in their own right—mentoring their peers, sharing the gospel in their schools, and inviting friends to church events. You don’t just have a ministry to students; you have a ministry through students.
This multiplication aligns with Jesus’ ministry model. He spent time equipping His disciples and then sent them out to do the work (Luke 9:1-6). When we give the ministry away, we follow His example of raising up leaders who carry the mission forward.
3. It Builds Confidence in Spiritual Gifts
Many students don’t realize they have spiritual gifts, let alone how to use them. Student-led ministry provides a safe space for them to discover and develop these gifts, whether it’s teaching, serving, encouraging, or leading worship.
When a student stands up to share a testimony or leads their first prayer, it might be awkward at first. But over time, they’ll grow in confidence, realizing that God has uniquely equipped them to serve His kingdom.
As leaders, our role is to identify and affirm these gifts. Like Barnabas encouraged Paul early in his ministry, we can say to our students, “I see God working through you. Keep going.”
4. It Creates a Culture of Peer Discipleship
Teenagers listen to other teenagers. (This is SO true!) While your voice as a youth pastor is important, there’s something powerful about a student hearing truth from a peer. Whenever a guest comes for the first time to our ministry, we have one of our student leaders text them later that day or the next to say thanks for coming.
Student-led ministry fosters a culture of peer discipleship, where students encourage and hold each other accountable. Whether it’s a small group leader walking through Scripture with a friend or a student worship leader inviting others into God’s presence, these moments create deeper connections and spiritual growth. We often have students teach the lesson in our Sunday morning Life Groups and every spring I give up the pulpit during our midweek gathering for students to preach.
Jesus’ Great Commission calls all believers to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). By equipping students to disciple their peers, we prepare them to fulfill this mission both now and in the future.
5. It Prepares Students for Lifelong Ministry
Ministry isn’t something reserved for pastors; it’s a calling for every believer. Yet, many students graduate from youth ministry without knowing how to live this out in adulthood.
By giving students leadership roles, we prepare them for a lifetime of serving the church. A student who leads a small group today might be a Sunday school teacher tomorrow. A teenager who organizes a local outreach could someday lead a missions team.
When we invest in student leaders, we’re building the future of the church. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Start a youth out on his way; even when he grows old, he will not depart from it” (CSB).
Practical Steps to Implement Student-Led Ministry
Giving the ministry away can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Here are a few ideas:
• Start small: Invite a student to co-lead a small group or share a testimony during youth group.
• Provide training: Offer leadership training moments or one-on-one mentoring to equip students with the skills they need. We send students to SLU (Student Leadership University) every summer and we recruit 25-30 students to be on our SLT (Student Leadership Team) every year.
• Give ownership: Let students plan and lead parts of your weekly program or organize an outreach event. You have to let go of control, even if it’s messy and not the way you would do it.
• Celebrate their efforts: Encourage students publicly when they step out in faith, even if they make mistakes.
As youth pastors, our goal isn’t to create a ministry that depends on us—it’s to develop disciples who depend on Jesus. Giving the ministry away isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
When we empower students to lead, we help them grow into the people God has called them to be. And in the process, we watch as God uses their gifts to reach their peers and beyond.
It’s not about us. It’s about equipping the next generation to lead the church forward. Let’s give the ministry away—and watch what God will do. I would love to talk about how you can foster more student leadership in your ministry context. Schedule a 1on1 coaching session today.
Two Feet on the Floor: The Moment When Your Day Begins
My alarm goes off sometime between 5:00 and 5:30 AM. The house is still, the world outside feels quiet, and for a brief moment, I consider staying under the covers. But then I remember: this is when it all starts. My mornings aren’t just the beginning of the day—they’re the foundation.
I’ve learned that how I use these early hours impacts everything else. It affects how I lead in ministry, how I show up for my family, and, most importantly, how I connect with God. So, when my two feet hit the floor, it’s go time.
Here’s how my morning routine helps me stay grounded, connected, and ready to take on the day.
Step 1: Breakfast and Connection
The first thing I do is head to the kitchen to make breakfast. It’s not just about food—it’s about setting the tone for my family before the day pulls us in different directions. My youngest daughter heads off to school early, so I try to make sure she starts her day with something warm and filling.
After breakfast is ready, my wife and I sit down together. This has become one of my favorite parts of the day. In the middle of the morning rush, we create a small pocket of stillness. We connect over coffee, talk about what’s ahead, and take time to pray together.
I’ve realized how easy it is to let the busyness of life crowd out moments like these. But these shared mornings remind us that we’re in this together—not just as parents, but as partners who are anchoring our family in God’s presence.
Step 2: Time with God
After my daughter is off to school and breakfast is done, it’s my time. I make my coffee, grab my Bible, and settle in for about an hour of focused time with God.
I use the One Year Bible for my daily reading. There’s something powerful about walking through Scripture in a structured way—it keeps me grounded in the Word and reminds me of the bigger story I’m part of. Some days, a verse will jump out and speak directly to what I’m walking through. Other days, it’s the simple rhythm of showing up that keeps me connected.
Prayer journaling has also become a key part of my mornings. Writing out my prayers helps me slow down and be honest with God. I’ll lift up specific concerns for my ministry, pray over my family, and seek guidance for decisions I’m facing. It’s also a chance to reflect on the ways God has answered prayers I’ve written before.
This hour isn’t rushed or hurried—it’s sacred. It’s where I recalibrate my heart and remember who I’m serving before I step into the demands of the day.
Step 3: Getting Ready and Planning the Day
Once my time with God is done, I get dressed and review my calendar. This is my moment to shift gears and prepare for what’s ahead.
I glance at my schedule and prioritize the key tasks or meetings that need my attention. Ministry can be unpredictable, so having a clear plan helps me stay focused on what matters most. It’s not just about checking boxes—it’s about making sure I’m stewarding my time well.
From there, I head to the church office, ready to take on whatever the day holds.
Why This Routine Matters
For years, my mornings were chaotic and reactive. I’d hit snooze, rush through breakfast (if I ate at all), and scramble into the day feeling unprepared. But over time, I realized that how I started my morning set the tone for everything else.
Now, my routine gives me a sense of purpose and clarity. Making breakfast isn’t just a chore—it’s a chance to serve my family. Praying with my wife isn’t just a habit—it’s a way to strengthen our relationship and invite God into our day. Spending time in Scripture and prayer isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the foundation of my calling.
For youth pastors, mornings are a gift. They’re a chance to meet with God before meeting with students, to invest in your family before investing in your ministry, and to prepare your heart before the demands of the day come knocking.
So, tomorrow morning, when your alarm goes off, resist the temptation to hit snooze. Swing your feet onto the floor and start with intention. Whether that looks like making breakfast, diving into Scripture, or taking a moment to pray, know that these small choices can have a big impact—not just on your day, but on your life and ministry.
Trust me: when you start your mornings with purpose, you’ll be amazed at how much better you’re able to pour into the people God has called you to serve.
Let’s talk about your morning routine and how we can get your day started off right… schedule a 1on1 coaching session.
A Day in the Life of a Youth Pastor
Do you have students come up to you occasionally and ask… “What do you do?’ Oh the mystery of the Monday through Friday pastor. I guess they think we don’t do anything but sit around and wait for them to come back to church. You and I both know there are a lot of things we do though out the week. Planning. Meeting with Pastor. Guest follow up. Room clean up and set up. And so much more.
So in a response to some of the preconceived ideas many of them have, I made a instragram reel of a typical day of a youth pastor. It was a fun exercise and enlightening to those who watched it.
Here is the fun moment… I shot the video, but one of our students edited it and formatted it for me.
What do you do during the week? What does your follow up and preparation look like? Are you spending time with your wife and kids too? Leave a comment or book a coaching session with Steve to take a deep dive in the behind the scenes look at what a youth pastor does any given day.
Ministry and Family. Is there such a thing as balance?
I mean I was rockin’ and rollin’ in student ministry during my younger years! I was young, newly married and living the “dual income no kids” lifestyle! Students were engaged, ministry was growing and I thought to myself…”Man I’ve got this!”
You’ve heard the phrase “pride goes before the fall.” Well I heard it in the dead of night from my wife. Sometime later, things in ministry were crusing. My wife had just given birth to our first born and when we came home from the hospital, I just kept on rockin’ and rollin’. The ministry needed my enthusiasm and energy. It needed the best of me all the time.
This went on for a month or two, when one night after a long day of ministry. I came home late and Shelley was already in bed with the lights out. I came in, got ready for bed and crawled in my side of the bed. In the dead of the night I hear a simple cry, “I miss you.” My heart sank. The Lord used a simple three word phrase to strike blows to my pride. She was right. In my youthfulness and pride I made ministry more important than my family.
Ministry, especially youth ministry, has a way of doing that. The rockstar mentality. The “everything revolves around me” trap and even the “everything will fall apart if I’m not in it” type of voices rule our hearts. Oh we may not say this things out loud for fear of being perceived as prideful, but we certainly live these phrases everyday.
Our family need us too. Especially when they are young. But there is a pitfall here too. We swing the pendulum to the extreme and ignore the ministry God has called us to. So where is the middle ground? Where I don’t neglect my family and continue to lead a thriving ministry. Here’s my theory: We put so much pressure on performance and not enough on relationship.
Peformance says, you’re not doing good enough so try harder to please. Relationship says, let’s just sit and enjoy the meaningful moments. Performance is fuel for perfection and keeping expectations. Relationship is thoughtful and intentional. Performance is toxic and never ending. Relationship is eternal and life-giving. (I think you know what I’m getting at here.)
Ministry is relationships. Not a performance. Family is rooted in relationship. Not performance. When we have the right perspective it gives great clarity to our time and effort. Yes, our family needs to learn to “let go of daddy” for a time, and the ministry needs to learn how to let of “youth pastor Steve.” There is a harmony we need to discover in loving our family and ministering to our students. And I will say, there is no 50/50 in this type of perspective.
Let’s chat about creating harmony and balance with family and ministry. Set up a 1on1 coaching session and let dig deeper in your situation and context. Praying for you today.
Husband, Dad, Youth Pastor, Writer
Fresh Calling: Ministry Coaching and Consulting 
Recent Comments