In this workshop discussion from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, four experienced ministry leaders—Connie Nelson, Isaiah Marshall, Liz Edrington, and Anna Meade Harris—tackle the important and complex topic of ministering to students who come from difficult home environments. They share why this issue is close to their hearts, explore what constitutes a challenging home life, offer practical strategies for building trust with students, and much more.

About the Panelists

• Connie Nelson has over a decade of youth ministry experience in Edmonton, Alberta, where she also leads in her church’s college ministry and serves with a Guatemalan missions organization.
• Isaiah Marshall is a husband, father, and spoken word artist. He serves as Director of Ministry Development at Rooted Ministry and is a Chaplain in the Air Force Reserve.
• Liz Edrington is the Associate Director of Care at McLean Presbyterian Church. A counselor, professor, and award-winning author, she is passionate about gospel-centered care for youth and families.
• Anna Meade Harris is Rooted’s Contributing Editor and co-host of the Rooted Parent Podcast. She is also the author of God’s Grace for Every Family and a leading voice on ministering to single-parent families.

Rooted Resources:

Ministering to Teenagers with Challenging Home Lives by Connie Nelson, Isaiah Marshall, Miz Edrington, and Anna Meade Harris

Ministering to Students in Crisis

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