Justin Forbes

Youth Beyond the Developmental Lens

Children & Youth

“Wes has opened the door for all of us to reconsider the water we swim in as youth workers: mainly, the assumptions of developmental psychology and the ways in which it has shaped our ministerial imagination. Through thoughtful theological reflection and empathetic storytelling, Wes envisions a new way forward for the church's ministry with young people. Calling for a new vision of friendship instead of benchmarks of development, Wes brings a breath of fresh air into often stagnant and overplayed conversations about ministry. Wes wants us all to start with God's activity rather than seeing the work of youth ministry as pushing young people along from one achievement to the next. Take the time and give this book a read.”