February 2021
A Journey with LGBTQ+ and Immigrant Youth
The journey of LGBTQ+ and immigrant youth are both beautiful and complex. In this presentation, Yadi Martinez-Reyna shares a glimpse into their various journeys and the worlds they navigate and negotiate with as they try to find a sense of belonging. Yadi will provide resources and ideas on how to create a safe space for all young people. Through lecture, dialogue, and open conversation, Yadi will invite you to reflect on the following questions: How do we create space for young people who are not already here? How do we partner with those who are here to evaluate, enhance, or transform our space? How do we reach beyond the borders of comfort and familiarity to share the good news with young people in need of support? In addressing these questions, Yadi aims to share with you their social, academic, and ethical experiences working with the youth and providing some working practices to guide your ministry.
March 2021
Innovation, Imagination, and Frustration: New Directions for Youth Ministry
Everyone knows that existing models for caring for teens (especially in ecclesial contexts) are pretty tired. The problem is that the church in North America often struggles to do excellent and compelling work. It also struggles to innovate. This webinar will explore some basic ideas to stimulate your imagination about how to impact teens/young adults in your community through innovative thinking. We will look at an innovative model of ministry that has been developed in the Pacific Northwest and it’s engagement in the world of social enterprise. The webinar will also take a brief look at how to finance new forms of ministry to help impact those teens.
April 2021
Adventures in Space-Making with the Rev. Phiwa Langeni
If you've ever wondered about ways to better engage with LGBTQ+ youth in your setting, you'll want to join this webinar as the Rev. Phiwa Langeni shares about their experiences in youth ministry and, most recently, founding Salus Center, Lansing, Michigan's only LGBTQ+ resource and community center. In addition to learning practical tips on language, pronouns, and other queer-related issues, you'll gain insights on simple changes you can make in your own practices to create space for LGBTQ+ youth and others you intend to serve. The interactivity built into the presentation aims to make room for you to leave with tidbits that you can directly apply to your setting.