102: Missions Trips & Discouraged Youth Pastors

In this episode, Mike McGarry and John Gardner explore the intersection of youth ministry and theology, focusing on the role of missions trips. They discuss the theological implications of these trips, critiques of short-term missions, and share personal experiences—both positive and negative while emphasizing the importance of gospel-centered missions. They also discuss the reality and challenge of discouragement in youth ministry. Finally, they promote the YPT Teaching Workshop as a great way to equipping youth leaders (paid and volunteers).   Send your question to Mike and John for the podcast here, and make sure to tell us you've left a rating/review to get bumped to the top of the list.    Chapters

• 3:07 - The Role of Missions Trips in Youth Ministry
• 5:57 - Critiques of Short-Term Missions
• 9:00 - Theological Foundations for Missions
• 11:56 - Positive and Negative Experiences in Missions
• 18:08 - Effective Missions Practices
• 23:56 - Encouragement for Discouraged Youth Pastors
• 30:01 - Conclusion and Teaching Workshop Promotion

Mike McGarry is the Founder and Director of Youth Pastor Theologian and served as a youth pastor for nearly twenty years. He's written four books for youth workers and teenagers, his latest is releasing in August '25, Iconic: Being God's Image in Your World. Follow Mike on  Instagram or X/Twitter.    John Gardner is the Pastor of Youth Ministries at Grace Church in Longmont, CO. John and his wife Jackie have been married for 15 years and love spending time trying out new food, exploring the national parks, and playing board games. Follow John on Instagram.    Together, Mike and John co-lead the YPT Teaching Workshop, a one day training session to equip your volunteers and other area youth leaders to teach the Bible to teenagers with depth and clarity. GO HERE to learn more about how to host a workshop at your church.   

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