The forgotten movement

I genuinely believe the future of youth ministry depends on leaders being spiritually formed themselves.

A few years ago, I had an encounter that reshaped both my walk with Jesus and my approach to youth ministry. At the time, I was leading a national youth ministry with about 15 years of ministry experience behind me. Things were going well. Our team was strong, the ministry was growing, and my relationship with God felt steady.

One evening, after a camp session, I was walking across a quiet field when I sensed a whisper deep within: “There’s more.” I tried to make sense of it. More what? More events? More leaders? More programs? But then I heard it again, this time more clearly: “There’s more of Me.”

That simple phrase stirred something in me. It wasn’t a summons to increase my output or add to my to-do list. It was an invitation to slow down, to lean in, and to know God more deeply and intimately.

That night sparked a season of soul-searching. I began to reflect on how I prayed, read Scripture, and worshiped. I realized these practices had become more about fuelling ministry than forming me. They were tools for productivity rather than channels of personal transformation.

Recognizing this, I began exploring new rhythms. That search led me to the contemplative tradition and writings on spiritual formation. I discovered voices like Richard Foster, Dallas Willard, Robert Mulholland and more recently, John Mark Comer. These teachers opened up new pathways of encountering God.

Through them, I found practices that create space for God to shape us, not just as leaders, but as beloved children.

And what began as a personal journey eventually grew into something more. I now call it The Forgotten Movement.

Most youth leaders are willing and committed; however, the demands of weekly programs and the rapid pace of today’s culture has left them struggling to grow in their personal relationship with Jesus and disciple the young people in their community.

The Forgotten Movement is a six- week journey of personal spiritual formation for youth leaders to help their ministry flow from a rooted friendship in Jesus.

Click here to find out more about the next journey.