The Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI) Report is an incredible resource designed to help cultivate and raise up new servant leaders. (Have you downloaded it yet? If not, go here!)
Since its launch in 2024, the YLI has sparked a wave of action across the NOW District and in other parts of the LCMS. Research shows that youth are deeply impacted when adults consistently show up for them and intentionally encourage their growth in faith and leadership.
A central focus of the YLI includes three key practices for cultivating servant leaders:
- Know the Person
- Name the Gift
- Find the Next Yes!
In your ministry, how are you using these actions to identify and raise up new leaders?
A recent junior/senior high retreat at Camp Lutherwood was shaped by YLI principles. “Heart Your Hood” was filled with fellowship, service, and time in God’s Word — and it served as a powerful opportunity to cultivate new servant leaders (read all about it here!). Braedon Thompson, youth and young adults minister at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hillsboro, Oregon, helped organize the event. He said the goals were not only to create connections amongst the participants, but also to meet the measures outlined in the YLI: to help every youth and person know they matter deeply to God because of Jesus, to help every youth and person know they have a valuable place and position in God’s Kingdom, and to help every youth and person grow as significant contributors to the ministry wherever they are. Feedback showed that the event was a resounding success!
One way any person in any setting can get started with the YLI is by downloading The Know Name Journal: A Field Guide for Creating a Yes! Culture. This bullet journal/planner resource helps leaders record their connections with youth while tracking progress toward the goal of “every youth, every ministry, Gospel responsibility.” Filling in the pages encourages reflection on how leaders are showing up well and finding the next “Yes!”
Another way to be part of it is by joining the “Hear and Share the Next Yes!” online check-in, held on the second Thursday of each month. These Zoom gatherings offer a chance to hear inspiring stories from leaders who are raising up the next generation. The next session is coming up on Nov. 13 — click here for details.
Marjaana Kuivalainen from All Saints Lutheran Church (Bellevue, Washington) even created a YLI guidelines/info sheet to share at a congregational leadership seminar. It highlights research-based practices for nurturing youth and adult leadership through faith-centered mentorship. Some of the key ideas include: creating sacred spaces of belonging, building trust through mentorship, and sustaining connection beyond the program.
These are just a few examples of how the YLI continues to inspire and influence ministry throughout the Northwest. The NOW District will continue to curate YLI-inspired resources created by leaders on the ground. If you have something to share, send it our way!
