Biblical community is a core value in nearly every ministry, though how it’s defined and demonstrated may be more assumed than articulated. In this two-part episode, Dorothy and Justin are joined by special guest Vicky Xia, a youth pastor at Living Stones Christian Church in New York, who will talk about important and effective facets and practices that go into establishing a gospel-based understanding of biblical community and what that looks like in building up a church’s youth group.
Listen to the episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or watch the episode on YouTube!
Biblical Community in Asian American Youth Ministry
In this episode of the Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Dorothy joins Justin and Vicky for a two-part conversation on community building. Together, they explore the difference between simply having friendships or a shared cultural connection and being formed together as a biblical community centered on Christ. The conversation examines the unique dynamics of community in Asian American churches, including the influence of generational differences, immigrant communities, and students’ tendency to see youth group primarily as a place to make friends.
Justin and Vicki also offer practical wisdom for youth ministers as they think about both the formation and format of their ministries. This conversation encourages leaders to think carefully about how community is built over time by creating opportunities for students to know one another deeply.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why community must be shaped by the gospel rather than shared preferences
- How the Asian American church context can shape the way students and families understand community
- Why youth ministers should help students think beyond finding friends their own age
- How parents can support their children’s spiritual formation through consistent participation in the life of the church
- Practical thoughts on large groups, small groups, cross-grade relationships, and student leadership
Related Rooted Resources
- Keeping the Preeminent Things Preeminent in Youth Ministry
- Teaching Biblical Community in Youth Group
- Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide
- Join us for our annual Rooted Conference this October 22-24 in Nashville, TN, to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded that you’re not alone in ministry.
- Consider joining the optional Asian American Pre-Conference lunch, too!