Every stage of life brings out certain human characteristics, and according to Kenda Creasy Dean, adolescence is particularly characterized by passion. If the church is to speak meaningfully to youth
Every stage of life brings out certain human characteristics, and according to Kenda Creasy Dean, adolescence is particularly characterized by passion. If the church is to speak meaningfully to youth and in turn reap the many benefits that young people have to offer, then its ministry must be predicated on passion ? the Passion of Christ, the passion of youth, and the passionate faith that results when these two things come together.
The uniqueness of Practicing Passion lies in its relocating youth ministry in practical theology rather than in educational theory or psychological or social development. While youth ministry has routinely capitalized on the passions of adolescents, little attention has been given to the theological mooring that youth need to connect with the church and hold firm amid the growing demands of popular culture. Focusing on the theological resonance between the Passion of Christ and adolescents? experience of passion, Dean develops a framework for youth ministry that draws on the historic practices of the Christian community as a ?curriculum of passion.?
Offering a compelling new model for reaching, discipling, and empowering today?s young adults, Practicing Passion is a vital resource for anyone already engaged in or preparing for youth ministry.
?This book is not a typical how-to manual for youth groups?. Dean offers a theological prescription not only for youth ministry but also for the whole church.?
? The Christian Century
Kenda Creasy Dean is the liveliest theologian of youth culture in the United States today. Youth ministers who read this book will see how adolescents are theological, and theologians who read this book will see why theology should be more adolescent.
? Tom Beaudoin
View Review quote
