There are 4.63 million youth between the ages of 15-24 in Canada, or 13% of the population.(Stats Can 2013) They live in rural, suburban and urban centres, and hail from divergent economic, family, religious and cultural backgrounds, yet share mutual characteristics. As ‘digital natives’, youth are increasingly connected through technology and desire relevant, transparent conversations on a wide-range of topics. They are ‘info grazers’, as social media platforms continue to change how they gather information and share ideas. Today’s teens have become known as a “social justice generation," passionately and actively taking up the cause of the poor, the oppressed, the orphan and the widow. Many are searching for a experiential faith that is holistically integrated into all areas of life. (Barna Group)
Mission Canada’s Youth Guiding Group has been designed to help meet the demands of reaching and discipling a nation of youth to be Spirit-filled Christ-followers. Through shared vision, mutual trust and cooperation the District and Youth Specialists team help equip and partner with local leaders to influence this generation.
RESOURCE RECOMMENDATIONS
- Sustainable Youth Ministry by John DeVries
- Nuts and Bolts of Youth Ministry by Duffy Robbins
- Purpose Driven Youth Ministry by Doug Fields
- Building a Youth Ministry that Builds Disciples, Duffy Robbins