Reboot is a program of SMU Perkins School of Theology. We help people discover a new approach to youth ministry—one that involves the whole church and that integrates work with youth into the life of the congregation.

If your church is ready to be innovative, we can help you customize a plan that maximizes the particular gifts and mission of your people.

We have a lot to offer your church—including mentors to work alongside you, classes and retreats to train your leaders, plus other excellent resources to get you started.  (We can provide so much because we've received generous support from the Lilly Endowment.)

You, in turn, will help other congregations that come along after you by sharing with them what you have discovered.

Here’s a look at the process.

Phase 1

This is the time for big dreams and wild ideas.

Here’s the first action step your church can take: assemble a Reboot Leadership Team. It needs to be a team, not a solo Pied Piper. And the team needs to be integral to church leadership, not a siloed youth ministry committee. Here’s the good news: the people on your team don’t need any prior youth ministry experience.

They just need to represent the whole church — young people, clergy, parents, and other adults.

The goal of this phase is to get your congregation thinking, discussing, and praying about youth ministry. Where have you been? Where do you want to be headed? This phase takes about 6 to 8 months, during which the Leadership Team should meet at least 6 times.

Our Reboot Starter Guide will help you imagine, dream, and plan. You can download it here for free. You can actually use this guide to get started on Phase 1 now—and be ready to apply for a future in-person cohort, if you so choose.

Phase 2

This is when the new vision starts to become a reality.

We work with you to turn your ideas into a clear blueprint for ministry.  We also help you develop concrete steps to implement it.

This phase, which lasts about a year, is an exciting time, because you’re starting to see results. It’s also when you learn to face obstacles and fight discouragement.

Again, we can help, because we’ve been there before. Our consultants will offer their feedback and insights. But it's God's mission and your youth ministry, so you'll have the final say.

Phase 3

This is when you reap the rewards of all your good planning and hard work.

Now the whole church can celebrate the success of youth ministry that involves everyone!

Of course, the work of ministry is ongoing.  There may still be some room for refinement and improvement (or in some cases, even a major overhaul).  That’s okay. God is patient, and so are we. We can help you evaluate your vision, design, and strategy in light of all you’ve learned, then help you decide where you need to press ahead or cut some things loose.

This is also when you start to “pay it forward,” by sharing your experiences with others. Rebooting starts as a partnership with us. But it can easily turn into a beautiful partnership with other churches!

Want to learn more about our program? Let's talk.