In this episode Huey, Justin, and Terrence delve into what it takes to mentor boys in Asian American Youth Ministry contexts so that they might grow and thrive as young men. They discuss what mentoring can look like both informally and systematically.
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[1:06] Personal Introductions: Huey Lee, Justin Wong, Terrence Shay
[3:24] General Profile of Boys in the Asian American Youth Ministry
Justin sees studious students, interested in video games, and needing social skills. Terrence shares similar characteristics, but also he’s seen that they become increasingly curious about their faith.
Huey poses a question about what’s frustrating about boys. Huey talks about boys not making eye contact when speaking to them and flimsy handshakes; Terrence talks about short attention spans; Justin talk about boys not responding to texts.
[9:37] Defining Mentoring; Unique Challenges that Boys Face Today
Terrence shares that mentoring is about building relationships. For Justin, one challenge to mentoring boys comes from family dynamics – some parents are all about academics and neglect building social and life skills. The other challenge is discerning how to love boys well – knowing when to show gentle care and when to show tough love. Terrence shares that youth ministers need to have thick skin when mentoring young boys.
[16:14] Signs that Churches Value Youth Ministry
Justin shares that when senior leadership is willing to listen and offer a seat at the table to youth pastors/leaders that can serve as a healthy sign that a church is heading in the right direction. Terrence shares the importance of youth pastors and leaders feeling supported by the wider church, and he gives a personal anecdote about seeing this in reality at his church recently. Justin shares the importance of youth ministers to be intentional, thoughtful and strategic in planning for youth ministry to gain confidence and trust.
[17:44] How to Think About Mentoring Systematically
Terrence talks about needing to multiply leadership so that a team becomes the youth minister’s extension. Justin shares practical examples of how he’s implemented this in his youth ministry by bringing older men around the boys to teach them certain life skills.
Huey poses a question about how to get young men to invest in the younger generation of boys. Justin encourages young men to steward their time and resources by investing in the next generation. Terrence shares that intergenerational ministry is so worth it. Justin encourages the church to pray for one middle school and one high school student.
[28:41] Closing Thoughts: Encouraging Asian American Boys
Justin encourages them by saying that they are loved by God in Christ. Terrence encourages them to have their identities shaped by the gospel.