Networks for Faith Formation: Relational Bonds and the Spiritual Growth of Youth

The spiritual formation of young people can often focus on encouraging their personal spiritual practices and perhaps linking them to a local youth group. While both are important Networks for Faith Formation argues that a far wider set of relationships are needed to help faith grow. The aim of Networks for Faith Formation is to describe and commend eight key networks relational bonds that nurture and nourish faith. The eight networks are bedroom practices (personal faith) church family friends mentors small groups events and gatherings and mission and service. The description of each network draws on biblical studies practical theology and the social sciences and practical ideas for helping young people engage with such networks are included throughout the book. In a context where some overlook the complexity of spiritual formation Networks for Faith Formation is an important resource for church leaders youth ministers and parents seeking to help young people grow in faith. Since relational bonds are key for people of any age it can also help all within the church understand the need for relationships in spiritual growth. Steven Emery-Wright and Ed Mackenzie helpfully cast a vision for congregational youth ministry featuring relational networks--at home at church among friends utilizing mentors small groups events and missional opportunities. There is no more important task for the Church in our day than the creation of these webs. This book should be on the shelf of every pastor teacher youth minister or parent. --David F. White Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary Steven Emery-Wright is a lecturer in practical theology and youth ministry at Hyupsung University South Korea and has worked in ministry and theological education in a number of different countries. He is a dual citizen of the UK and USA and has written a number of books including Now That Was Worship (2012) and Understanding Teenage Sexuality (2009). Ed Mackenzie is a discipleship officer for the Methodist Church of Great Britain and an associate lecturer in New Testament at Cliff College. He is a dual citizen of the UK and New Zealand and is the co-author of Together with God: An Introduction to Family Worship (2016).