DownloadNov. 23, 2009 issue
Bluffton hosts Ohio youth ministers
By Bluffton University staffBLUFFTON, Ohio — Youth pastors and youth workers from Ohio Conference of Mennonite Church USA gathered at Bluffton University Nov. 12 as part of the second Ohio Youth Pastor Peer Group conference.
Youth pastors meet with Bluffton University professors and youth ministry majors Nov. 12. Fifteen youth workers attended the Ohio Youth Pastor Peer Group conference hosted by Bluffton University. — Photo provided by Bluffton University
Thomas Dunn, youth pastor at Kidron Mennonite Church and a 2007 Bluffton graduate, introduced the idea of having a day set aside for youth pastors to gather at Bluffton and discuss ministry.
Darin Nisly, youth pastor at First Mennonite Church in Canton; Joe Troyer, youth pastor at Hartville Mennonite Church; and Jessica Schrock-Ringenberg, youth pastor at Zion Mennonite Church in Archbold, organized the event this year.
Randy Keeler, professor of religion, served as a resource for the daylong conference in 2008 and again in 2009. He works extensively with youth ministry majors and is Ohio Conference’s youth ministry advocate for the western portion of the conference.
“The day is a resource for the youth pastors,” Keeler said. “Today we discussed relationships — relationships with God, family, youth, parents, pastors and other staff and adult leaders, and how important these relationships are in ensuring a long-term ministry.”
Pastors had the opportunity to provide resources to one another, spend time meeting with youth ministry majors, and discuss challenges and success, Keeler said.
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