In this episode of the Youth Pastor Theologian podcast, Mike McGarry and John Gardner discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry. They explore the challenges of training and retaining volunteers, effective onboarding processes, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for trust and buy-in from volunteers, and they share some practical counsel for how to train and cultivate trust with your volunteer team. 

 

Order Mike's book, Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers (affiliate link provides the author with a small financial benefit, thanks for your support!)

 

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 now available: 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. Visit the YPT site to learn more about how to host a workshop at your church. 

 

Join YPT's Facebook group: @youththeologian (make sure you answer the membership questions)