COURSE DESCRIPTION

For centuries social structures and institutions have influenced the lives of youth.  In this course we will have an opportunity to step away from the temptation to compartmentalize and marginalize our faith; and begin to apply biblical integration to the social context of urban youth ministry.  The emphasis of the course will be to cross the bridge from theological theory to practical ministry strategy. We hope to accomplish this through…

• Evaluative study of urban youth culture

• Learning to identify patterns of blessing and misfortune within the social context of urban youth culture

• Designing a strategic ministry plan that entails: cultural competence, outreach, community ministry and discipleship in collaboration with the local church

A WORD FROM RENÉ…

I can’t begin to tell you how excited I am for the opportunity to be back in the classroom.  I am an educator by calling and profession. For fifteen years I had the privilege of teaching high school educator coach and athletic director. While in graduate school (in the mid 90’s) I had the privilege of teaching some undergraduate classes and conducted a Bible study on the University of Texas Campus for 12 years! We grew from 8 students in the gospel choir to about 110 students from three different schools every Monday night. 

I had the honor assisting in the start up of Kids Across America (A Christian Sports Campo for inner- city youth) where I also designed the “Kaleo” Program.  This was a camp within a camp to minister to the Urban Youth worker. The framework was build upon four things, Rest, Refreshment, Recreation and Relationships. I have served Urban Youth Workers for about 15 years. 

Many students came to the Bible study held in the education building just out of curiosity.  Before we knew it we were the most diverse study on campus.  To God be the Glory!  It was out of that study that my passion is to see youth and young adults get an understanding of truth that they can readily apply to their day to day life.  This class will be a breath of fresh air to me as I am able to do what I love most …to Love The Lord and those trusted to my charge for a season of impartation.

On the educational tip, my doctoral studies were in the area of Health Sciences with a focus on children and adolescents, with a minor in Educational Psychology.  I designed an ecological model of development PHAT STAR™ (A bio-psychosocial, theological design) that much of my teaching springs from. 

Accountability will be fleshed out through short papers, essays, article critiques and a project.  I will be more precise in the course directed syllabus for registered students.

I look forward to the opportunity.

IYL 555 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: June 4, 2009

YL 555 major assignments:  Article critiques, 2-3 page papers on assigned books, and discussion regarding reading materials.  A class project will include a ministry outreach plan for an urban community to reach youth with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

 Additional YL 555 details are available to registered students only.