In today's episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Mark DeVries, the co-founder of the Ministry Architects and the Center for Youth Ministry Training. Mark brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Associate Pastor for Youth and Their Families at First Presbyterian Church in Nashville for 28 years. He joked with us that he is a Youth Minister who is about to enter into Medicare. We are excited to share with you his insights and experiences in youth ministry. 

Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his ministry career, Mark opens up about facing burnout in the early 2000s. He emphasizes the crucial need for ministry leaders to have a coach or spiritual director, saying: "I often say to our staff, if you are a coach and you do not have a coach, you are a hypocrite. You don't really believe in coaching; you just believe in your job."

Mark delves into his exploration of systems using the Edwin Friedman Model, highlighting the significance of addressing underlying system issues rather than merely dealing with surface-level content problems.

Drawing on a powerful metaphor, Mark encourages the creation of an "island of viral health" within an organization. He suggests that even in challenging environments, leaders can architect a healthy culture for their ministry.

We are confident that you will discover many, many nuggets of wisdom in this insightful conversation with Mark DeVries.

Each week, we ask our guest to highlight an organization that is doing good work. Mark talks about a local organization in Nashville, the Presbyterian Latinx Ministry Fund, which provides ESL, food pantry, and other support to Nashville’s Latinx community.