All church ministries are oriented toward fostering missionary discipleship. Youth ministry focuses this mission on young people. In this new book in the Collegeville Ministry series, Jeffrey Kaster explores leadership for youth ministry, Christian discipleship, conversion, the theological foundations for youth ministry, the importance of community and belonging, and vocational discernment. Kaster looks at the practice of vocational discernment and how it encourages youth ministry to continually help young people discern their gifts, connect them in service to meet the world's deep needs, and foster Christian discipleship. Youth ministry at its best mobilizes the faith community to support young people as they learn to live as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Jeffrey Kaster, EdD, is the director of Youth in Theology and Ministry program for Saint John's University School of Theology and Seminary, and an adjunct professor of theology at Saint John's University and the College of Saint Benedict. He also serves as the coordinator of Lilly Youth Theology Network. Jeff completed an MA in Scripture from Saint John's School of Theology and Seminary in 1984 and a Doctorate of Education from the University of Minnesota in 2008.