This course engages academic learning and practical application. Forty-five percent of the student's learning takes place in real-world missional settings such as in a local church, non-profit or non-government organization (NGO), or a social service agency. The practicum fosters the integration of the academic material which covers eight foundational elements of effective youth mission: (1) Generation Z and Alpha, (2) Effective Discipleship and Spiritual Formation (3) Adolescent Communal Life, (4) Ecclesiastical & Administrative Relationships, (5) Adolescent Communication, (6) Strategic Parent and Family Faith Qualities, (7) Organization and Administration of Youth Mission, (8) Evangelization of Adolescents.
The Undergraduate Certificate in Youth Mission is a missionally-driven, interdisciplinary certificate program focusing on the intersection between the mission of God and Generation Z and Alpha. Students examine the cultural factors and contextual space that forms Gen-Z and Alpha and develop missional strategies for the transformation of youth as the primary focus.
Ministry to Generation Z and Alpha requires a solid biblical foundation and contextual understanding of the local culture to engage with an effective ministry model. A framework for understanding transformational youth ministry is constructed by the students.
Ministry to Generation Z and Alpha aligns with core scriptural principles addressing the unique needs and challenges of this generation. Foundational truths are timeless and relevant highlighting the importance of living a life of faith, integrity, and love for God and humanity—the great commission and the great commandment.
A missional approach addresses current socio-theological concerns. Cultural relevance involves upholding biblical fidelity while adapting teaching methods and communication styles to address Gen Z's and Alpha’s experiences and concerns, including social justice, mental health, and digital engagement.
Scripture is applied to contemporary issues faced by Gen Z and Alpha, such as identity, relationships, and purpose, in a manner that resonates with their unique concerns. This approach synthesizes biblical truths without synchronizing them with conflicting ideas.
Each student is shaped by their unique cultural background and brings those value assumptions into their ministry context. To effectively understand oneself and these underlying presuppositions, it is essential to develop a theological method that uses discernment to distinguish between culturally accepted ethical and ministry standards and those that are timeless and rooted in the mission of God.
To foster genuine community and relational connections, students are empowered to participate in guided leadership involvement within a missional community, reflecting biblical principles of calling and service.
The combination of academic learning, hands-on experience, and service-learning offers students valuable insights into their field of interest. They develop an understanding of the vocational environment and are equipped to identify and pursue opportunities for growth. The approach considers the whole person—spiritually, emotionally, and socially—by applying Biblical principles within a contextual missional setting.
