First-Century Youth Ministry: Exploring Our Jewish Roots to Reclaim Discipleship

We all want thriving youth ministries, vibrant communities of teenagers and adult leaders who are all growing as disciples of Jesus. Too often, though, it feels like things just aren’t…quite…working. While there are lots of potential solutions to the “problems” of youth ministry, Heather Quiroz suggests looking back—way back—for answers: at first-century Jewish faith, life, and culture.

With vulnerability and humor, Quiroz combines stories from her years as an in-the-trenches youth worker with extensive study to help readers understand how building upon the wisdom and practices of the past can help shape our ministries today. Peppered throughout are simple, practical tips on everything from starting an intergenerational mentorship ministry to helping teenagers meaningfully engage with Scripture to encouraging teens and families to build restful Sabbath rhythms into their lives.

Written for youth workers, parents, pastors, and anyone who cares about guiding young people as they grow into disciples of Jesus Christ, First-Century Youth Ministry will encourage and challenge readers, making it clear how nourishing the roots of our faith will bring our youth ministries to life.

Endorsements
"Discipleship” is such an often-used term in ministry. But sadly enough, it is also such a RARELY-EXPERIENCED term in actual youth ministry in the 21st Century. Heather Quiroz’s insightful book, First-Century Youth Ministry, is a game-changer if you have the guts and intellectual curiosity to read it. It traces the patterns Jesus used in His discipleship as a “First Century youth pastor” (most of the disciples would have fallen into that age-group). It will challenge you to actually “be like Jesus” in this most strategic aspect of your ministry, life, and leadership. -Jeanne Mayo

I had the privilege of teaching a master's level course on youth ministry in Colorado a few years ago. On day one, an energetic student named Heather Quiroz kept asking inquisitive questions. Some of those questions now surface in her newest book.I’m so proud of Heather’s curiosity as she wrestles with how to implement first-century discipleship into today’s world. You will especially love Heather’s heart for mentoring, loving students and parents, and the need for the sabbath. A must-read for all youth ministry leaders! -Dr. David Olshine

Heather Quiroz separates herself as a youth ministry thought-leader by integrating biblical truth with day-to-day practice. She fetches rich insights from Jesus’ actual life and ministry patterns – rooted in his Jewish identity – and translates them to the ministry challenges faced by all who work in the smartphone world of today’s teens. Helpfulness rooted in faithfulness…well done! -Dr. Dave Rahn