Issues and Trends in Next Generation Ministry – CHMN 510

Course Description

This course explores the cultural trends and issues impacting the current generation of children, adolescents, and their families. Current and developing trends will be evaluated from theological and sociological perspectives in the context of local church ministry.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Rationale

Every area of life and ministry as well as all academic disciplines change over time. The elements that influence those changes can vary from constructive to destructive. Next Generation ministry leaders are on watch for these influential developments that shape the faith and practice of a biblical worldview in the lives of young people and their parents. Obervations alone are simply not adequate in the efforts to equip parents and next generation ministry leaders. These leaders must access strong research and produce additional research so that next generation ministry leaders are thoroughly equipped for what lies ahead in missional efforts of the body of Christ, at home, at church, and in the community.

Course Assignment

Textbook Readings and Lecture Presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview. 

Discussions (3)

Discussion are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt. Each thread must be 400 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 200 words. (CLOs: A, B, D)

Next Gen Ministry Presentation Assignments (3)

For this assignment, the student will submit a presentation created using PowerPoint. The presentation will be designed to be delivered as a training session in the student's ministry. The intended audience will be volunteer leaders and parents. The student will offer insight to the specific topic as stated in the course schedule. (CLOs A, B, C, E)

Recommended Resources for Family and Ministry Leaders Assignment

The student will create a list of recommended resources that are essential in equipping parents and ministry leaders to be effective in leading the next generation. The list will include published books, blog sites and articles, podcasts, other websites, etc. that offer insight into the current and future cultural issues and observable trends. These sources may be part of the content used in developing each training seminar. (CLOs: C,D,E)

Reflection on Course Assignment

The student will write a 1,000–1,200-word reflection essay in current Turabian format. The essay will answer the question “How has this course shaped your thinking in the following areas related to issues and trends in next generation ministry: 1) theological framework for evaluating issues & trends, 2) identification of current trends affecting families, and 3) equipping parents and leaders for family life amidst changing cultural landscapes. (CLOs: C,E)