Institute for Youth Ministry

Bridging Theology and Practice in Youth Ministry

For 30 years, we’ve formed Christian leaders for thoughtful, just, and creative ministry with young people. Since our founding in 1995, the Institute for Youth Ministry at Princeton Theological Seminary has connected theology and practice in youth ministry through research, programs, events, and resources. We train ministry leaders who work with young people, support emerging scholarship, and collaborate with Christian congregations and organizations. In all of our work, we celebrate God’s just and creative movement in the lives and experiences of young people.

Ready to join us?

At the Institute for Youth Ministry, we work closely with ministry leaders to help young Christian people grow and develop into the leaders that God has called them to be. If you are a Christian adult connected to teenagers at home, work, church, or your wider community, we believe that you are called to the holy work of youth ministry!

Programs FAQs

Annual Forum on Youth Ministry

The Princeton Forum on Youth Ministry is an annual spring conference held at Princeton Theological Seminary that brings together practitioners, scholars, pastors, students, and innovators committed to the spiritual formation and flourishing of young people. Each year, the Forum centers on a guiding theme that invites fresh theological and practical reflection while fostering relationships across denominational, cultural, and vocational contexts. Rather than offering quick answers or ministry formulas, the Forum engages deeper questions about what truly matters in ministry with youth and how faithful leadership can be imagined and practiced today. Forum 2026 will take place April 28–May 1, 2026, with flexible one-, two-, and three-day participation options.

Quotes from Our Community

“The IYM helped me think theologically about youth ministry. Since working with the IYM, I haven’t been afraid to ask young people to contribute to the larger church’s understanding of God”

Joel Moody
Pastor

“The IYM is the best youth ministry training ground for youth leaders. The staff and leadership are 100% committed.”

Bianca Howard
Consultant, Ministry Architects

“These are among the most brilliant, creative, and dedicated leaders in youth ministry. They have done the research and background work, they are prepared to adapt to anything, and they are committed to helping your youth, community, and congregation thrive.”

Victoria White
Director

“If you’re looking for thoughtful, scholastically minded youth ministry professionals, the IYM is second to none.”

Jason Brian Santos
Pastor

Resources

Transforming Christian Adults into Youth Ministry Leaders

Explore IYM Programs

IYM Upcoming Events

Disrupting Ministry Podcast