Len Kageler
Group Publishing, 2011, 169 pp., $15.99
While professional youth ministry has continued to grow numerically and in credibility, few would argue the vast majority of those working with youth are volunteers. Without the aid of committed college students, parents and other adults working as small group leaders, Sunday School teachers, drivers, counselors, mentors and friends, youth ministry would be only a shadow of the discipleship Jesus exemplified. Len Kageler recognizes the crucial role of volunteers and seeks to encourage and equip them for the work.
More than a simple handbook for the novice, The Field Guide is full of guidance and information gleaned from decades of hands-on youth ministry with leaders who have responded to the cajoling, sometimes without fully understanding why. The book is broken into six sections, covering global headings such as “Understanding Yourself and Your Calling,” “Youth Work Basics,” “Teenagers,” “Parents,” “Working with Other Volunteers” and “Understanding Church Leadership.” Each section is divided into several chapters focusing attention on specific issues. Full of anecdotes and quotes from volunteers on the frontlines, the book is relevant and interesting.
This is an easy and relatively short read, making it a suitable gift to give incoming volunteers full of fear and trepidation, but would be better utilized as a manual for a leadership training retreat or ongoing training program. With the credibility of Kageler’s long experience and his obvious care for ministry volunteers, you can trust anyone who reads this book will find a great deal of benefit.
