What is the most crucial phase of youth ministry? The First Two Years.

And Doug Fields, with over 20 years in youth ministry, knows what makes or breaks a rookie youth leader. Youth ministry-like the Christian life-is a race that requires both training and endurance.

Employing stories and principles from his own successes and failures, Doug will offer treasure troves of practical advice, to help youth workers travel a smoother path and achieve real longevity in a church culture that all too often chews them and spits them out.

Doug will cover all-important issues such as:

• Dealing with discouragement
• Establishing a solid spiritual foundation
• Building effective relationships with students
• Resolving conflict
• Ministering to parents and families
• Trailblazing change
• Working with volunteers
• Defining a realistic job description

Gather your youth team for a practical session on developing a youth ministry that keeps kids coming back for more -- and keeps you "running the race with endurance." If you're a youth "veteran" struggling with burnout, you'll gain a new perspective that can put you back in the race with renewed strength!

Doug Fields, Youth ministry veteran of more than two decades, Doug Fields, has authored and coauthored 25-plus books - most notably his Purpose-Driven Youth Ministry, Your First Two Years of Youth Ministry, and One-Minute Bible 4 Students. Doug is youth pastor for Saddleback Church in Southern California, a frequent speaker a Youth Specialties' training events, and heads up an Internet youth ministry resource company (www.dougfields.com).

Bo Boshers, As Executive Director of Student Ministries for Willow Creek Association, Bo trains, equips, and encourages students and ministry leaders. He speaks at workshops and conferences throughout the world, and is the author of Student Ministry for the 21st Century, two Doing Life with God volumes, and Becoming a Contagious Christian: Student Edition.