What 15 Youth Pastors Taught Me in 48 Hours
This week, I had the opportunity to be part of something special — a Youth Ministry Think Tank with 15 other youth pastors from around the country. For two days, we gathered to dream, wrestle, and strategize around what God is doing in the next generation.
Over six sessions, we talked about everything from student leadership and parent ministry to organizational leadership, systems, and sustainability. Each conversation was raw, honest, and full of practical wisdom. There were moments of laughter, deep conviction, and even a few “why didn’t I think of that?” notes scribbled in our journals.
But beyond the whiteboards and frameworks, what impacted me most was the power of the room.
Fifteen leaders. Different churches. Different contexts. One heartbeat — to see teenagers know Jesus and make Him known.
There’s something sacred about being around people who “get it.”
People who understand the Thursday fatigue after a Wednesday night win.
People who know what it feels like to pour out your heart week after week, praying God does something eternal with it.
We weren’t there to compete; we were there to collaborate.
And it reminded me that while ministry can feel lonely, it was never meant to be done alone.
The Value of Collaboration
One of my favorite moments came when we broke into a discussion on leadership systems.
We went around the room sharing how each of us developing people — what’s working, what’s failing, and what we’re learning.
There were no egos, no platforms, just leaders sharpening leaders.
From monthly leadership labs to weekly investment, I shared how we’ve built a discipleship pathway that moves students from the crowd to the core.
By the end, my notes were overflowing — not just with ideas, but with inspiration.
When I left that room, I didn’t just walk away with new strategies.
I walked away encouraged, convicted, and reminded of the bigger picture:
We’re all on the same team — advancing the same Kingdom.
3 Reasons You Need to Be in a Room with Like-Minded Leaders
You Gain What You Can’t Google.
There’s something you get in person that no blog, video, or podcast can give you. Real conversations with real leaders provide nuance, authenticity, and accountability that online content can’t replicate. Sometimes the best resource isn’t a file — it’s a friend.You Remember You’re Not Alone.
Ministry can be isolating, but when you sit across from others who fight the same battles, carry the same burdens, and chase the same mission, you find strength. Iron sharpens iron — and encouragement reignites passion.You Grow by Giving, Not Just Getting.
Rooms like these aren’t just about receiving ideas; they’re about releasing them. When you share what’s worked (and what hasn’t), you help someone else grow — and often find clarity for yourself in the process.
Final Thoughts
The Think Tank wasn’t just another event on the calendar. It was a reminder that collaboration creates multiplication.
When youth pastors share openly, pray collectively, and dream boldly, God uses that unity to move the needle in ways we could never do alone.
To the 15 youth pastors I spent the past couple of days with — thank you. Your stories, honesty, and passion reminded me that the future of youth ministry is bright because the call of God is still strong.
So if you ever get the chance to step into a room like that — do it.
You’ll walk out with more than ideas.
You’ll walk out with fresh fire, deep encouragement, and a renewed vision for the students you’re called to lead.