Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable

Clearly articulated core values have a powerful way of shaping the trajectory of any youth ministry. In this two-part series, we explore Rooted’s Five Pillars for gospel-centered youth ministry in the Asian American context—what they are, why they are important, and how we can live them out with students. In this episode, we will discuss the first two pillars: gospel centrality and theological depth. We explain how these pillars can provide a common vocabulary and framework, highlighting the need for clarity and purpose in the Asian American youth ministry. The Five Pillars: Foundations of Youth Ministry Panel Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, eds. Cameron Cole, Jon Nielson (Crossway, 2016). The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, ed. Kevin Yi (New Growth Press, 2023). Rooted Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community. Subscribe and follow Rooted’s youth ministry podcasts: Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable and Youth Ministry Unscripted podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

The world in which our students are growing up is changing faster than ever, and youth ministry must thoughtfully prepare to meet the moment. This episode features highlights from the Youth Symposium 2026 in Houston, Texas—a one-day gathering designed to equip pastors, youth leaders, and parents with gospel-centered wisdom for discipling the next generation. Engaging workshops on mental health, Gen Z culture, digital discipleship, student leadership, and gospel-centered teaching offer tools for shepherding students in today’s complex cultural landscape. Rooted Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community. Asian American Leadership Conference (April 28-29, 2026) Subscribe and follow the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast Check out Rooted’s gospel-centered curriculum and mentoring opportunities Join us at an upcoming Rooted Conference to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded you’re not alone in ministry. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Leadership in youth ministry often looks exciting from the outside—but many leaders quietly carry exhaustion, discouragement, and spiritual weight. In this episode, we explore the hidden hardships of leadership: unmet expectations, loneliness, criticism, burnout, and the temptation to quit when faithfulness feels costly. This conversation helps youth ministers name their struggles honestly, understand why hardship is not a sign of failure, and learn how God uses suffering to form resilient, Christ-centered leaders who endure for the long haul. Confessions of a Struggling Youth Minister (Series) Rooted’s Youth Ministry Mentorship Program: A year-long mentoring pathway designed to help youth ministers process leadership challenges with seasoned leaders in the community. Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church by Paul David Tripp. 1 Peter 5:1-5 Hebrews 13:17 Subscribe and follow the Rooted Youth Ministry Podcast Check out Rooted’s gospel-centered curriculum and mentoring opportunities Join us for Rooted’s 2026 Conference in Nashville, TN to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded you’re not alone in ministry. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence continues a lively dialogue with Dorothy and Huey to share their resources for cross-cultural missions, which reveal their diverse backgrounds. The episode continues with robust back-and-forth on the priorities and pitfalls of leading youth teams, accompanied by pearls of wisdom to be applied before, during, and/or after a mission trip. Grab a seat and join us! Rooted Resources on MissionsMissions and Youth Ministry (Conference Panel with Josh Newton, Danny Kwon, and Isaiah Marshall)He Is Worthy: Helping Students Discover Meaning in Missions by Joey TurnerFollow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!Watch the episode on YouTube! Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, Terrence is joined by Dorothy and Huey (the Birthday Boy) to talk about their personal experiences with cross-cultural missions, which reveal their diverse backgrounds. They then delve into the details to unpack the usefulness, purpose, and pet peeves embedded in planning and execution from the POV of youth ministry. Grab a seat and join us!He Is Worthy: Helping Students Discover Meaning in Missions - Rooted MinistryMissions - Rooted MinistryFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Watch us on Youtube!Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this episode of the Rooted Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable, the team reflects on the momentum of their first episode and looks ahead to shaping meaningful spring content. Welcoming new voices—including Huey (Christ Central Presbyterian Church) and Dorothy (Chinese Bible Church of Maryland) & Special Guest, Esther —the conversation blends personal stories, regional experiences, and practical wisdom for navigating the spring semester in youth ministry.The group explores the unique rhythms of spring as a season of transition marked by endings and new beginnings. Topics range from confirmation and baptism classes to reinforcing vision after the January “reset,” with Justin outlining a framework of building theological foundations in the fall and applying them through discipleship and mission in the spring. Special attention is given to planning around key moments like Easter, graduation, and the realities of AP exam season, when student participation often dips.Dorothy and Huey offer concrete strategies for sustaining community during academically intense months—such as smaller gatherings, off-site events, prayer spaces, and investing intentionally in younger students—while emphasizing balance, rest, and spiritual depth. The episode closes with a call for thoughtful spring planning that prioritizes formation over busyness, preparing students spiritually for the freedom and challenges of the summer ahead.RESOURCESTeenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders, by Monica Kim and Danny KwonFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this episode of Rooted, Justin sits down with Dorothy, Huey, and special guest Esther to talk about milestones, celebrations, appreciation, and annual events in youth ministry. Together, they explore what’s worth marking, how to celebrate students and leaders well, and how simple rhythms can build meaningful, Gospel-centered community—without overcomplicating things.RESOURCESTeenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders, by Monica Kim and Danny KwonFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In part 2 of 2, we’re exploring the theme of “dark night of the soul” in Asian American youth ministry, sharing personal stories of spiritual dryness, ministry discouragement, and the hidden pressures that shape these seasons. We unpack how youth workers can recognize spiritual desolation in themselves and in their students, respond with patience and presence rather than quick fixes, and build healthier ministry cultures that allow vulnerability and support. The conversation ultimately points toward hope—trusting that even in fruitless, confusing, and silent seasons, God is still at work forming leaders, students, and communities for deeper faithfulness.RESOURCESTeenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders, by Monica Kim and Danny KwonFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this first of two episodes, we’re exploring the theme of “dark night of the soul” in Asian American youth ministry, sharing personal stories of spiritual dryness, ministry discouragement, and the hidden pressures that shape these seasons. We unpack how youth workers can recognize spiritual desolation in themselves and in their students, respond with patience and presence rather than quick fixes, and build healthier ministry cultures that allow vulnerability and support. The conversation ultimately points toward hope—trusting that even in fruitless, confusing, and silent seasons, God is still at work forming leaders, students, and communities for deeper faithfulness.RESOURCES. Teenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders by Monica Kim and Danny KwonMaking Space for Encouragement in Youth MinistryPushing Back on the Loneliness Epidemic Among Young People - Rooted Ministry Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In today’s episode, we unpack on-the-ground insights from Rooted’s 15th Annual conference in Lake Forest, Illinois. Join Dorothy, Justin, and Terrence for this reflection from the 2025 Rooted Conference. Recent Release: Teenagers and Mental Health: A Handbook for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders (Monica Kim & Danny Kwon)Rooted Reservoir - Luke/Acts Curriculum (Free download for Lesson 1 guides) Houston, TX folks: Mark your calendars for a youth workers’ training day on Saturday, January 31, 2026.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In today’s episode, we’re tackling a crucial but often overlooked part of ministry: onboarding and offboarding youth leaders. Bringing leaders onto the team well—and walking with them when it’s time to step away—can make all the difference for the health and sustainability of a ministry. We’ll share how we discern readiness, train and mentor new leaders, and care for them along the way. We’ll also dig into how to navigate transitions with grace—whether they’re healthy, painful, or somewhere in between.The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin YiRooted Mentoring ProgramsFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Effective youth ministry leadership is not about building the “perfect” team—it’s about cultivating a culture of trust, gospel-centered relationships, and shared mission. In this episode, join Dorothy, Justin, and Huey as these veteran youth pastors think and talk through organizational leadership teams in youth ministry. In Asian American church contexts, this means paying attention not only to organizational structure but also to cultural dynamics that shape how teams serve and grow together.Join us in Chicago, October 23-25, 2025, for our annual gospel-centered youth ministry conference! Sign-up and scope out the workshops.Sign-up for the Asian American Pre-Conference lunch gathering ($35).The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin YiRooted Mentoring Programs Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Join us in Chicago, October 23-25, 2025, for our annual gospel-centered youth ministry conference! Sign-up and scope out the workshops.Sign-up for the Asian American Pre-Conference lunch gathering ($35).The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American Edition, edited by Kevin YiRooted Mentoring ProgramsFollow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe to the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

In this episode, as we ramp up for this year’s Rooted Conference, Huey, Terrence, and Dorothy share their past experiences with Rooted Conferences. We’ll hear what they’ve most enjoyed, appreciated, and gleaned. They’ll share what makes this conference distinct from other ministry conferences. Finally, we’ll share more details about our upcoming conference as we study The Church in Acts and explore a wide array of workshop topics.Gospel-Centered and Grace-Filled: Experiencing the Rooted Conference by Mary Beth JohnstonThe Importance of Ministry Friends by Connor CoskeryCheck out our Conference Webpage to sign-up and scope out the workshops. We can’t wait to see you in Chicago, October 23-25!Follow on Instagram @therootedministry.Subscribe, rate, and review the Rooted podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

The Back to School grind is real! In this episode of the AAYM Roundtable, Terrence talks with Dorothy and Justin about their preparation and priorities to maximize disciple-making. Along the way, the three share many practical nuggets of wisdom, as well as their pastoral burdens for local churches from an Asian-American context.A Back to School Checklist for Youth MinistersYou Can’t Do This Alone: Recruiting and Retaining Youth Leaders by Zac LuskNurturing a Youth Ministry Culture that Fosters Intergenerational Ministry with Danny KwonThe Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American EditionGet more info and register for the Rooted 2025 Conference (10/23-25) in Dorothy’s home city!FOLLOW us on IG @rootedministry.Please rate and review the Rooted AAYM Roundtable wherever you listen to podcasts! Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

So much happens in youth ministry during the summer months that it can become a busy blur. Terrence hosts this conversation with Justin and Dorothy, focusing on the specifics of retreat planning and the how-tos of establishing healthy personal rhythms. The three practitioners conclude with encouragements for youth ministers to take care of themselves so they can persevere joyfully for the long-run.RESOURCESRooted Podcast: Maximizing Summer Youth Ministry: Balancing Activity and RestPractical Advice for Planning Your Next Youth Retreat by Josh HussungHow I Handle Discipline on a Youth Retreat or Trip by Ryan OakesThe Practical and the Personal: Keeping Up With Students After a Trip or Retreat by Rebecca LankfordThe Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School: Asian American EditionFOLLOW us on IG @rootedministry! Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

Part two of the "Seasons of Discernment" series delves into the expectations surrounding youth ministry searches, particularly within Asian American congregations. The roundtable discussion explores both the spoken and the unspoken expectations that churches have for prospective youth pastors, including program development, cultural sensitivities, and familial integration. The team also emphasizes the importance for candidates to discern these expectations through careful observation and insightful questions. Furthermore, the conversation addresses the expectations youth pastors should have of a church, such as adequate support and clarity on the role, encouraging proactive inquiry during the hiring process to ensure vision alignment and a healthy working relationship. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates.Follow and subscribe to the Asian American Youth Ministry Roundtable wherever you listen to podcasts.Join us at the Rooted 2025 Conference! quotes:Timestamps: (0:37) Introductions(3:10) Dorothy answers, “What is one thing you wish someone told you before the youth ministry search?” (5:12) “I wish someone told me that I could ask questions. When I first began in youth ministry, I felt like I had to prove myself to the church.” - Huey(17:13) “It’s important that you have a sense of self-awareness that you can receive feedback yourself.” - Dorothy(18:51) Huey answers, “What were some expectations that Asian American churches put on youth pastors?” (22:18) “The initial job description was 3-pages long” - Dorothy(27:08) “When do you ask about compensation?” Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.

This month's AAYM Roundtable delves into the crucial process of discerning and navigating the application journey when seeking a new role as a youth minister, director, or pastor. Our discussion centers on the lessons learned during this significant period of vocational transition, particularly the critical steps involved before accepting a position. This episode, the first in a series, specifically focuses on the essential considerations for identifying and evaluating healthy church environments as a key aspect of the discernment process. We will explore the characteristics of thriving ministry contexts and offer practical guidance for candidates as they prayerfully consider their next steps in youth ministry leadership.Resources: Follow @therootedministry Join us in Chicago, October 23-25, 2025, for our annual gospel-centered youth ministry conference!If you are new to family ministry, check out our Family Ministry Mentoring Program.Subscribe to the Asian American Youth Ministry podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by: Huey Lee, M. Div. from Biblical Theological Seminary; Justin Wong, Ed.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Terrence Shay, Family Ministry Pastor at FCBC Walnut; and Dorothy Lau, youth director at the Chinese Bible Church of Maryland.