MN575: Theology and Philosophy of Youth Ministry
with Dr. Gabriel Veas
- WEEKENDS: September 22-23, October 20-21, November 10-11
- Course held on campus at Western Theological Seminary
About Gabe Veas:
(from http://www.drgabeveas.com/)
As students continue to face negative influences on a daily basis, communities across the country are in search of leaders with life-changing messages that resonate with youth. Straight from the heart of Los Angeles, a new voice of hope has emerged for this generation: Dr. Gabe Veas.
Dr. Gabe Veas believes in rememberingthe past. The last names of his grandparents reflect his Mexican heritage: Ramirez, Aguilar, Martinez, and Veas. Yet, looking back on it all, Veas’ family came to the United States with a dream. One could call it the American dream, or better yet, they were “California Dreaming”. They had dreams of a better life, not only of hope and opportunities for themselves, but more importantly for their children to be educated and live a better life. Based upon his upbringing, Veas realized the truth that each person, individually, will have to choose whether or not to follow the positive or negative traditions of his or her heritage, neighborhood, and family.
In his talk, “California Dreaming,” Dr. Gabe Veas speaks to the realities of life growing up in a humble Mexican-American home in Los Angeles. Inspired by dreams born out of pain and struggle, Veas shares the motivational story of how he overcame the realities of inner-city life to persevere and be the positive role model he is today. This popular message has roots to Dr. Gabe Veas’ earliest days as a speaker when he began addressing crowds of his classmates weekly at the age of 16. Back then, while attending one of the most dangerous high schools in America, Veas first felt the need to step out and make a positive difference by encouraging students to follow their dreams and give back to the community.
MN575: Theology and Philosophy of Youth Ministry
with Dr. Gabriel VeasStudents in this course will seek to understand the philosophical theories of youth ministry, as well as how biblical principles have been examined and applied historically to youth ministry. Students will learn how to implement the discipleship process and cultivate faith development. Other areas covered will include the teacher/learner process, small group development, age differentiated ministry needs in the local church, working with volunteers, developing lesson plans, mentoring, and how to direct the youth ministry program within the community.
Class Times for “Theology and Philosophy of Youth Ministry:”
- September 22-23 (Friday 3-6pm & Saturday 8am-12, then 1-5pm)
- October 20-21 (Friday 3-6pm & Saturday 8am-12, then 1-5pm)
- November 10-11 (Friday 3-6pm & Saturday 8am-12, then 1-5pm)
$300 to audit, or take for 3 credit hours at $1,335
Contact Beth Smith to register at 616-392-8555 or registrar@westernsem.edu
