Jeremy sits down (in person!!) with Andrew and Chris from Open Doors Canada to explore what persecution really means and why understanding it matters for all of us youth workers as we pass faith onto the next generation. Drawing from their work and research of Christians all around the world, Andrew and Chris help clarify the difference between persecution and everyday disagreement, grounding the discussion in a definition centered on identification with Christ. More than statistics, this conversation highlights powerful stories from the global church and invites youth workers to lift their eyes beyond their own context. You’ll be challenged to consider how learning from persecuted believers can deepen faith, shape discipleship, and form a more resilient, outward-looking Christianity among your students.

Check out opendoorscanada.org and their great resources, like the World Watch List and Arise Africa Campaign.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

In this episode, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Rob Chartrand, professor and program coordinator of Christian Ministry at Briercrest, to explore what many are beginning to notice across Canada: a growing spiritual curiosity among Gen Z. Drawing on recent research, cultural trends, and his experience forming future ministry leaders, Rob reflects on why young people are searching for meaning in a culture shaped by anxiety, nihilism, and fragmentation. He’ll talk about how youth workers might need to shift from trying to convince students that faith matters to helping them discover the depth and beauty of the Christian story. Offering a more robust gospel that acknowledges the challenges of life and helps students live a better story centered on Jesus.

Learn more about Briercrest at briercrest.ca or Rob’s podcast at churchinthenorth.ca

You can read more about the news report that Rob mentions at CTV News

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community

In part two of this extended conversation, Jeremy continues his discussion with Dr. Ken Castor as they work through more real questions from volunteer youth workers. This episode focuses especially on students who don’t fit the typical youth ministry mold (think quiet students, highly scheduled students, and those who show up for reasons other than spiritual growth). Ken challenges the assumption that youth ministry is designed primarily for extroverts and invites leaders to rethink how leadership development, discipleship, and program structures can serve every student. From redefining success beyond attendance to building ministry around real relationships, this conversation offers you some thoughtful guidance on helping students follow Jesus, no matter their personality, pace, or level of engagement.

Ken has written a number of books including the Make a Difference Bible and the Make a Difference Devotional.

Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community