Embracing the Passion: Christian Youthwork and Politics - Softcover

Pimlott, Nigel

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0334053110 ISBN 13: 9780334053118

Publisher: SCM Press, 2015

Synopsis

Convention suggests it is best not to talk about faith and politics: this book talks about both! It argues that Jesus was a political figure who championed the rights of the marginalised, the oppressed and voiceless. In this challenging and accessible book, Nigel Pimlott argues young people are often marginalised, oppressed and rarely heard in a world favouring the rich and powerful. Young people are opinionated, passionate about what they think is right and wrong, and are concerned about the world they live in. Yet research indicates young people are disengaged from mainstream political processes where they can express their views - young adults have stopped voting in elections in unprecedented numbers. This is something of a paradox.

Nigel contends that by more effectively equipping Christian youth workers and ministers to do politicking, they will be able to better equip and disciple young people to be more politically engaged in their own contexts. This unique research-based book provides a concise overview of how youth workers might best help young people flourish and realise the common good. It engages those interested in politics – and more importantly – encourages those not interested to get interested and make a difference in the world!

About this title

Review:

I firmly believe that if your theology doesn’t challenge you to be involved in your community, work to bring about change, create inclusion, and seek justice for those on the edges of our society, then something is wrong. This book encourages us to do all of these things; inspiring those who work with young people to take seriously the political aspect of Jesus’ ministry. I warmly welcome it. (Steve Chalke)

Facilitating students to understand the wider political and social policy context they work within whether this is in the church, voluntary or statutory sector is a vital part of all our courses. Helping youth workers with a Christian value-base understand the concepts, language and implications inherent in contemporary work is essential if opportunities to make a difference in the world are to be maximised. This book is a very provocative and timely critique of these matters and an excellent resource for both student and experienced youth workers. (Sally Nash)

Nigel’s research is a brilliant up to date resource for our trainee youth workers. His book is both stretching and challenging: copies will definitely be available in our library! (Paul Friend)

It is obvious that this is a book born out of extensive research and thought, and yet it remains accessible. Whether you want to help young people engage with politics or are a young person wanting to put theological flesh to your political passion, this book is a perfect starting point. (Ben Whitmarsh)

About the Author:

Dr Nigel Pimlott is passionate about work with young people. He has worked for Frontier Youth Trust for many years and offers a wealth of experience and insight about faith, mission and the world we live in. He is author of a number of books and youth work resources, as well as a life-long supporter of Manchester City.

About this edition

• Publisher: SCM Press
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 0334053110
• ISBN 13: 9780334053118
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192