by Caleb Cortez
Working with my youth group has deeply impacted me in ways I never expected. It’s more than just leading Bible studies or organizing events—it’s about walking alongside young people during some of the most crucial years of their lives. Seeing students wrestle with their faith, and grow in their relationship with God has stretched my own faith. They’ve taught me how to be real, how to listen more than I speak, and how to lead with authenticity rather than perfection. There have been moments of sorrow and moments of joy, but each one has shaped me into a more compassionate, patient, and Christ-centered leader. This calling continues to remind me that ministry isn’t about me—it’s about pointing people to Jesus and being present in the process. The words of the Apostle Peter, “I am a living stone,” have become a mental anchor for me. Stay solid, stay secure, and be useful in the building process. Keep building relationships. Keep paving the way for Christ to reach more hearts.
Our youth group, Onemop, has been a blessing through multiplication. Our youth group has produced new dream team members to serve in our church ministry. We’ve seen the impact of their faithfulness echo through different areas of ministry. Our church has grown through the passion and labor of these young people. Guests have walked in the doors because of their invitation. Baptisms have taken place because of their witness. Small groups have become the heartbeat of our youth ministry and our church. We’ve discovered a rhythm that works beautifully for our English-speaking, apostolic church: a 6-week on, 2-week off cycle. This gives space for connection and consistency, while honoring life’s need for rest, family, and recharge. During those six weeks, our high school, college, and young adult groups meet separately, building strong, meaningful relationships. In the sixth week, we host Connect Night—an all-together gathering for food, fun, and unity. The last Friday of the month, we unite for One Night – a spirit filled service to praise, worship, and hear the word of God.
Our small group curriculum—written by Minister Gabriel Gonzalez and myself—has resonated deeply with our young people. These original, spirit-led lessons speak to real questions, relevant theology, and today’s challenges. Young people aren’t afraid of the truth—they’re looking for it. And small groups give them a space to wrestle, ask, and grow. By God’s grace, our small groups have brought a harvest. We’ve seen baptisms, deeper discipleship, and a genuine sense of community. We grow together in small groups—focused on evangelism, building community, and multiplication.
I’ve come to understand that youth ministry is not just a department of the church—it’s an organism of its own. In many ways,it functions like a church within the church, with its own unique needs, culture, and spiritual rhythms. As the youth pastor, I don’t just lead events—I shepherd souls. The young people are the people I serve and love. They are the ones I pray for, pour into, and carry in my heart.
“Discipleship happens in the moments no one sees — in conversations, in consistency, in love.”
I’ve come to understand that youth ministry is not just a department of the church—it’s an organism of its own. In many ways,it functions like a church within the church, with its own unique needs, culture, and spiritual rhythms. As the youth pastor, I don’t just lead events—I shepherd souls. The young people are the people I serve and love. They are the ones I pray for, pour into, and carry in my heart.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that youth ministry comes in seasons. There are times to build, and times to rebuild. There are moments to disciple deeply and times tosimply have fun and create memories. Just like a pastor, I’ve seen seasons where I’ve had to preach truth, counsel through chaos, correct with love, or serve by myself when no one else saw. Then there are seasons of revival, joy, and harvest—when you see the fruit of seeds sown in quiet faithfulness. Every season matters. Every season is necessary. However, youth ministry does not come without any challenges. Something that continues to stretch me is the need for balanced, available leaders. There have been seasons where we’ve had plenty of young men serving, but few—if any—young women to lead and model for our younger girls. At times, that imbalance makes things feel incomplete. I know others may face the opposite issue—a team of strong young women but few young men stepping up. It’s a tension many youth ministries experience. What do you do when that happens? You keep plowing. You keep showing up. You pray for God to send the laborers and you thank Him for the ones He has sent. We’ve been blessed in our ministry to have our First Lady and faithful sisters in the church step in and stand in the gap when needed. Their presence and wisdom have been invaluable, and I know it’s the Lord reminding us that He always provides—even if it doesn’t look how we imagined.
Youth ministry is not always easy—but it is always worth it. Every altar moment, every breakthrough, every late-night conversation, every soul baptized, every laugh, every struggle—it all matters. This is more than a ministry—it’s a calling. It truly is a privilege to walk this journey with the next generation. The book of Romans describes the apostle Paul as “A bondservant of Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God.” (Romans 1:1) May we never forget that we too are a bondservant of Christ – called and set apart for the gospel. Let’s keep serving God and serving the next generation of young people.
About the Author
Caleb Cortez serves as the Youth Pastor at Highest Praise Apostolic Church in Redlands, CA, leading their youth group, “One – Messengers of Peace,” with a heart for discipleship and unity. He also supports his church through small groups, the music department, and core leadership alongside his local pastor, Elder Tim Arroyo, helping cultivate spiritual growth within the congregation.
