Resources for Students and Parents
As youth pastors, we've read a lot of books and have a pretty good idea of what materials are out there for students and parents. This page has our recommendations for resources parents and students can use in their walks with God.
Hooked
New Science on How Casual Sex Is Affecting Our Children
Society tells us that sex is an act of self-expression, a personal choice for physical pleasure that can be summed up in the ubiquitous phrase: "hooking up." Millions of American teenagers and young adults are finding that the psychological baggage of such behavior is having a real and lasting impact on their lives. They are discovering that "hooking up" is the easy part, but "unhooking" from the bonds of a sexual relationship can have serious consequences. A practical look into new scientific research showing how sexual activity causes the release of brain chemicals which then result in emotional bonding and a powerful desire to repeat the activity. This book will help parents and singles understand that "safe sex" isn't safe at all; that even if they are protected against STD's and pregnancy, they are still hurting themselves and their partner.
Wonderland
A Year in the Life of an American High School
If you are a parent and feeling out of touch with your high schooler, this book is for you. Follow the stories, heartaches, victories, and antics of the students at a Pennsylvania high school for an entire year. If nothing else, it will give you perspective on what your student is facing every day when they set foot inside their school.
Deep Justice in a Broken World
Helping Your Kids Serve Others and Right the Wrongs Around Them
For parents and students looking for a way to make a difference in the world around them, we offer this book as a resource. This isn't the simplest book out there, but it is invaluable for those wanting to take the next step in serving God.
Sex God
Bell's book isn't a sex manual, an exploration of the differences between men and women, or a marriage how-to, though all of that is here. Instead, it's the story of God becoming human, of humans mirroring God, and love made manifest in the messiness of our humanity. Sex God is about relationships revealed in a way that elevates the human condition and offers hope to those whose relationships are wounded. In Bell's spare, somewhat oblique style, he addresses lust, respect, denial, risk, acceptance, and more.
Wired for a Life of Worship
Athlete or musician, quiet or "the life of the party"-every student you encounter is unique. No two are the same, but all have something in common: each is wired for worship. Not just any worship, but for that of their Creator!
The Irresistable Revolution
Living as an Ordinary Radical
From dressing the wounds of lepers in Calcutta to living among the homeless in Philadelphia to visiting families in Iraq, social activist Claiborne strives to live an authentic Christian life. In his view, he is a radical in the truest sense of the word, returning to the roots of Christianity by living as Jesus did and doing "small things with great love."