What does your role/work involve?
My job as National Youth Coordinator - South is to support all youth leaders, youth workers and youth ministries in Presbyterian Churches around the South Island. I work in four main areas; networking, advocacy, training and resourcing. I also work closely with the PYM focus group to dream and plan for the future of youth ministry in the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Why did you choose this ministry?
I have been training and working in the youth-work field since I left school. I am passionate about Jesus and about young people and seeing the two come together. Presbyterian Youth Ministry is in a really healthy place and still has plenty of room for growth and development! I chose this ministry because I’m inspired by the past and excited about the potential for the future for PYM!
What have you learned about God through this work?
It has been refreshing to be reminded of God’s faithfulness and provision. I am aware of, and have learned more about, the awesome heritage of the Presbyterian Church and our journey with God over the years. I am looking forward to seeing where God plans to take us in the future!
What is the most exciting thing about being involved in it?
For me it is all about the people! I am excited to be in this role because I get to work alongside some phenomenal youth leaders doing fantastic jobs in their patches around the country.
What have been the biggest challenges?
So far just the steep learning curve of how things work “behind the scenes” of PYM. There are so many files!!!!
Who has inspired you?
Aside from the obvious choice of Jesus I would have to say that Mother Theresa’s example of servant leadership has always been an inspiration to me. On a grass-roots level I would have to say Mo Morgan as well - what she has done for PYM and how she went about it is hugely inspirational. Lastly I would have to say my Dad - he’s been involved with young people for as long as I can remember and even as an old fella he has still got his finger in a lot of pies!
Where to from here/what are your future plans?
My plan for this year is to visit as many youth leaders and youth ministries in the South Island as possible and make connections with all regions. So if you are out there and want a visit from me or need to use me for your ministry in any way please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Do you have any recommended books/CDs?
Well, I’m about to go and see Brooke Fraser in concert so I totally recommend her new CD Albertine. Not only is her music fantastic but this is a CD with a mission - make sure you read the front cover to find out why. Also to all you girls out there I recommend any book by Francine Rivers, especially Redeeming Love. It is a novel based on the story of Hosea in the Bible and it is one you won’t want to put down!
Where can I learn more about what you do?
Check out www.presbyterian.org.nz and go to the youth page but “watch this space” applies because it is in need of some major updating! Also feel free to contact me anytime for a chat or book me in to come to your patch. Look forward to hearing from you! Here are my details: Steph Redhead, National Youth Coordinator – South, Ph (03) 208-6076, 25 Robertson Street, Gore, stephanie@presbyterian.org.nz