Youth ministry is different in different parts of the world. That shouldn’t be any big surprise. Youth ministry is different in two churches in the same town. However, are there some things youth leaders are trying to accomplish in churches all over the world? My Ph.D. research has been focused on that question.

Over 110 youth leaders in 29 countries on six continents agree that these seven statements are essential objectives for youth ministry:

1. Lead youth to repent and turn to faith in Christ for their salvation.
2. Disciple youth to follow Christ in every area of their lives.
3. Teach youth to see Christianity as a relationship with Jesus Christ.
4. Guide youth to spend time with Jesus in prayer and Bible study as a way of developing their relationship with him.
5. Guide youth to build faith that will last for a lifetime.
6. Disciple youth to the point that they can disciple others.
7. As youth leaders, be honest, genuine, and sincere in relating to youth.

Perhaps these essentials are good things for us to invest ourselves in as we minister to youth in small churches.