Virtual
Book Clubs
Welcome to our Virtual Book Club—an exciting opportunity to embark on a reflective journey alongside like-minded ministry peers.
At GYD we love finding ways to encourage those in the world of children’s and youth ministry to read good books.
Over the course of the next academic year, we will be running a number of book clubs that are aimed at encouraging us to think more deeply about some pressing issues. The format is very simple. We read a chunk of the book and meet for one hour each week for a few weeks to discuss it together. These groups are very relaxed – you do not have to participate in discussion if you do not feel comfortable doing so. However, we believe that you will be inspired, stretched, equipped and encouraged if you sign up and join us. Spaces are limited, please do book early to avoid disappointment. We would love to welcome you along!
Raising Gen Alpha
more info.
Raising Gen Alpha by Dave Boden offers youth workers a hopeful guide to understanding the generation growing up amid anxiety, pandemic disruption, connectivity and artificial intelligence. Blending research, insight and biblical wisdom, Boden explores both the pressures young people face and the potential to shape their hearts and minds. Why not join us for this book club for reflection and discussion as we seek to raise this generation for the glory of the Lord Jesus
Thursdays 1, 8 and 16 October 2026
10–11am
God’s Grace for Every Family
more info.
Join us as we read God’s Grace for Every Family by Anna Meade Harris. This compassionate book explores the unique challenges faced by single-parent families and the ways God’s grace meets them in every season. Together, we’ll discuss how churches can better support, welcome, and care for single parents while growing in our understanding of God’s heart for every family. Whether you’re a single parent, a youth or children’s worker, or simply want to learn how to love others well, we’d love for you to join the conversation.
Wednesdays 30 September & 7, 14 and 21 October 2026
9.30–10.30am
Faithful Futures
more info.
In Faithful Futures, Josh Packard asks what meaningful faith engagement with young people might look like today. Drawing on extensive research, he encourages youth workers to move beyond programmes and easy answers, placing relationships, listening and belonging at the heart of ministry. Accessible, thought-provoking and grounded in young people’s lived experience, this book will help you examine familiar assumptions and consider how youth work can nurture faith with greater authenticity, curiosity and care.
Tuesdays 3, 10, 17 and 24 November 2026
4–5pm
Disability and the Gospel
more info.
Disability and the Gospel invites Christians to rethink disability through the story of Scripture. Michael Beates combines biblical reflection, personal experience and practical wisdom to challenge assumptions about weakness, healing and human worth. For gospel workers, this is a thoughtful and important read. It can help us to build ministries where disabled young people are not merely included but recognised as indispensable members of Christ’s body. It offers rich discussion on belonging, dignity and faithful Christian community today.
Wednesdays 24 February & 3, 10 and 17 March 2027
10–11am
Destiny
more info.
Destiny takes readers on a wise and compelling journey through Ecclesiastes, showing how facing the reality of death can teach us to live well. David Gibson explores work, pleasure, ambition, relationships and joy with honesty, warmth and hope. For youth and children’s workers, it offers valuable perspective on helping young people navigate questions of purpose, identity and success. This thought-provoking book invites rich conversation about living wisely, receiving God’s gifts gratefully and keeping eternity in view daily.
Thursdays 15, 22, and 29 April & 6 May 2027
2–3pm
Children and Communion
more info.
Children and Communion tackles the difficult question of when children should participate in the Lord’s Supper. Phillip Kayser carefully examines fourteen different positions, uncovering the biblical and theological assumptions behind each. Though detailed and demanding, the book encourages charitable engagement with Christians who reach different conclusions. For those wishing to delve more deeply into this significant theological and pastoral question, this book offers a valuable opportunity to think deeply about covenant membership, profession of faith, spiritual maturity and how the church welcomes young believers to Christ’s table.
