Folks who are new to youth work are always looking for a hook.

They want to know what will grow their group or what resource to I have that I can share with them. To be honest they are looking for the answer for the next youth event.

But ask a youth leader who has been at this a while and they all have the same answer. Relationships. It's all about building relationships.

Bo Boshers and Judson Poling have authored a book that practically expresses this issue with the be with factor from Zondervan. These two veteran youth ministers challenge each of us to live it with a teenager along side. Close enough to model our personal "Christ-journey". "Whatever your current role with students, we want to see you get in the game of life-transformation through mentoring"(p 11).

This is a great book if you are a solo youth leader, even better a great book to read as a youth leadership team. Each chapter has discussion questions. Even better bring your pastor or deacons in the discussion.

Inexpensive, practical and a great foundational resources!

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=271606&netp_id=432438&event=ESRCN&item_code=WW