The Youth Ministry Futures Residential is something different.
It’s more than a conference or a lecture series.

It’s a new gathering of people passionate about Youth Ministry in Australia and beyond.

Over 4 days nestled amongst some of the best food + coffee Melbourne has to offer, the program blurs the line between content & community as we immerse ourselves in a week packed with opportunity

  • During the day we gather around content delivered by some of the best missiologists and practitioners in the country, designed to spark deep discussion, innovative ideas, and effective ministry practice.

  • In the evening we’ll take time to be encouraged for the task ahead of us - thinking, laughing, resting, eating, praying and dreaming together about the future of Youth Ministry.

  • By the end of the week we’ll leave with hearts, minds and networks expanded, all in the hope of reaching Australian young people with the gospel

So if you take youth ministry seriously, and you want your ministry to grow in its depth and impact, we’d love have you join us.

So join us as we turn classrooms into playgrounds, theory into practice, and sparks into flames.

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if you'd like to talk about a group booking, accommodation, or have any other questions

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*Academic Credit
You can attend the Residential for academic credit with Ridley College (affiliated College of the Australian University of Theology) with FEE-Help available for eligible students. This is a great opportunity for anyone wanting to include some youth ministry study into their theological degree, do some thinking about youth ministry, or even take youth ministry as a cross-disciplinary unit as part of their course of study elsewhere.

Presenters

  • Dr Justine Toh

    Justine Toh is Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity. Holding a PhD in Cultural Studies from Macquarie University, she writes and speaks on Christianity and culture for outlets like The Australian, ABC, and The Guardian. Justine explores identity, ambition, and consumerism in modern life, offering thoughtful Christian perspectives on cultural trends and social issues. 

  • Dr Louise Simon

    Louise Simon teaches at St. Andrew’s Hall, Melbourne, and is an adjunct faculty member at Ridley College. She holds a PhD in East Asian Studies and has served as a missionary in South East Asia. Louise specializes in cultural anthropology and missiology, researching cross-cultural awareness and women in Islam. She regularly teaches and writes on intercultural ministry, faith, and global mission.

  • Dr Graham Stanton

    Graham Stanton is the founder and director of Youth Ministry Futures and a leading expert in youth ministry. With a PhD in Bible engagement among young people, he trains youth leaders globally, and works as the director of the Centre for Children’s and Youth Ministry at Ridley College. He also recently co-lead the Your Story project, a major study of the spiritual experiences of young Australians.

  • James Baker

    James Baker is the founding CEO of xp. Ltd, which creates digital resources to help young Australians explore life and faith authentically. He is an Endeavour Executive Fellow, recognized by the Australian Government for his strategic leadership in ministry. With a focus on emerging churches, innovation, and digital discipleship, James helps churches and organizations connect with younger generations.

  • Dr Rowan Lewis

    Rowan Lewis is Head of Pastoral Theology at ACOM, the Australian College of Ministries. He is an experienced researcher and educator in the area of formation and spirituality, specialising in accompanying young people amidst times of doubt and spiritual transition. Rowan, alongside Graham Stanton, recently co-lead the Your Story project, a major study of the spiritual experiences of young Australians

  • David Chiswell

    Dave Chiswell is a full-time youth pastor at City on a Hill Geelong. In addition, he also works as the co-founder and lead trainer at Youth Ministry Futures, and is an adjunct lecturer at Ridley College. Dave is passionate about youth discipleship, his research interests include the current state of Australian youth ministry, Expressive Individualism, leadership development and preaching.

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