By Dan Carson, Director • Student Ministry Matters
Student ministry is sacred work. It is filled with joy, laughter and life-changing moments, but it also comes with long nights, deep questions and emotional weight. Today’s students are navigating a rapidly changing world, and the leaders walking with them often carry that pressure quietly. Serving the next generation is one of the most important and difficult assignments in the church. That is why leaders need more than encouragement. They need practical support, clear resources and real community.
Student Ministry Matters and Shaping Student Ministry are proud to announce a new partnership created to meet that need. Together, they are combining decades of experience, trusted tools and relational networks to equip those who serve students in every context. Whether you are a full-time student pastor, a bi-vocational minister, a volunteer leader or a senior pastor wearing multiple hats, this partnership is for you.
Student Ministry Matters has built a strong reputation for relational encouragement and meaningful connection. Through podcasts, coaching, retreats and ongoing conversations, they remind leaders that they are not alone and that what they do truly matters. Their voice has become a steady encouragement to countless youth workers across the country.
Shaping Student Ministry exists to make gospel-centered ministry sustainable, clear and effective. Their curriculum and resources are designed with both the leader and the student in mind. Each tool is built for theological depth, practical use and long-term growth. These materials help ministries focus on discipleship without sacrificing quality or clarity. Best of all, these tools are available at a price any ministry can afford.
It is no secret that finding great curriculum can be frustrating. Many options are either too shallow, too complex or too scattered. You shouldn’t have to juggle four different subscriptions just to build one solid plan. This partnership offers what student pastors have been looking for — a single, gospel-centered hub that includes curriculum, volunteer resources, planning tools, leadership training and a supportive community. Through this collaboration, leaders can now expect:
• Coaching and care from trusted voices
• Gospel-centered curriculum that is high-quality and easy to use
• Resources that serve both students and volunteers
• Community cohorts and shared learning environments
• Invitations to exclusive retreats and training events
“Our goal is simple,” said Ian Dunaway, co-founder of Shaping Student Ministry. “We want student pastors and volunteers to thrive, not just survive. This partnership helps us meet leaders where they are and walk with them into health and confidence.”
When leaders are connected and equipped, the entire church is stronger. We believe this partnership will serve churches well in the days ahead.
In a time when many pastors feel stretched thin, this partnership serves as a timely reminder that you do not have to face this challenge alone. There are people who care, tools that help and a growing network ready to walk with you.
To learn more or take your next step, visit shapingstudentministry.com/studentministrymatters.
