Resource Book List

"Why Nobody Learns Much of Anything at Church: And How to Fix It"
Thom and Joani Schultz
Group Publishing
Great book pointing out the problems that our church is having in teaching our youth. Shows how many programs have been mired in educational practices from more than 40 years ago. This book gives a unique perspective on the uphill battle we face, and some great ideas to fix the problems.

"So What's the Difference?"
Fritz Ridenour
Regal Publishing
This book explains the central tenants and main beliefs of the major religions in the world. At the end of each chapter, Ridenour explains the main differences as compared to Christianity and how best to explain our faith to those of another religion. This book is perfect for a basis to a Bible Study series on different religions, especially as many kids face questions about Islam and other competing religions in today's society.

Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions
George Barna
A book that focuses our attention on children. Most churches have youth ministry, but how many are understanding the need to focus on children. Barna's research has found, "If people do not embrace Jesus Christ before their teenage years, the chances of them doing so at all is slim." And "our spiritual condition by age 13 is a strong predictor of our spiritual condition as an adult."

Advanced Strategic Planning: A New Model for Church and Ministry Leaders
Aubrey Malphurs
This book can be helpful to a congregation, a youth ministry or other organizations. Its a great resource in understanding mission, vision, core values, and developing a strategic plan. Very easily understood and well organized. Keep it on your shelf as a quick resource also.

"Raptor"
Sam Sikes
Learning Unlimited Corporation
Great book of easy/cheap group and team building activities for any size youth group. Activities range from 10 minutes to 60 minutes or more. This book also gives a brief explanation about how to best use these activities and how to become a great group facilitator.

"50 ways to use your noodle"
Chris Cavert and Sam Sikes
Learning Unlimited Corporation
The title of this book is pretty self-explanatory. For $1.25/piece, any youth leader can buy a dozen "fun noodles" and find at least 50 engaging activities for any age of youth.

Youth Ministry Cargo
Joni Schultz, Group Publishing
Over 300 activities, Bible Studies, and object lessons for every facet of your program; organized by the main object used and cross referenced by topic. The beginning of the book is a “how to” section, followed by detailed instructions for each activity. The works for providing options for covering a topic or providing ideas for what to do with things you already have.

Building Community in Youth Groups
Denny Rydberg
The introduction explains five steps of community building and how to use them with your group. The remaining chapters offer many activities for each step. Some are brief enough to be part of an event and others would serve as an entire event on their own. A few full retreat schedules are also included.