Exploring Faith: A Conversation with Pastor Kirby Neely on Episode 4

In this powerful episode of The Other Pastors podcast, we sit down with veteran youth pastor Kirby Neely, who has dedicated over 22 years to youth ministry. Currently overseeing student ministries across four campuses with a team of 15 people at Woodman Valley Chapel, Kirby shares invaluable insights about longevity in ministry, building effective teams, and maintaining passion while serving in supporting pastoral roles.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Book: "Fish!" - workplace culture book about Pike Place Fish Market

• Book: "Grit" by Angela Duckworth

• Book: "Controlled Chaos" by Kurt Johnston

• Podcast: "Living Wild" with Remy Warren

• YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park Conference Center

• Website: www.otherpastors.com

Key Discussion Points:

1. Personal Development & Growth

2. Current reading includes "Fish!" for team culture development

3. Reading "Grit" with his daughter to develop perseverance

4. Importance of maintaining continuous learning in ministry

5. Ministry Journey & Calling

6. Received call to ministry at winter camp in 9th grade

7. Started serving in youth ministry immediately after his calling

8. Transitioned from materialistic goals to kingdom-focused purpose

9. Keys to Longevity in Youth Ministry

10. Making ministry a family affair

11. Involving family members in ministry activities

12. Looking at ministry success through a long-term lens

13. Celebrating the "long-term harvest" of student development

14. Team Building & Leadership

15. Managing team transitions

16. Rebuilding ministry teams while maintaining momentum

17. Creating sustainable ministry structures

18. Developing future-focused leadership strategies

19. Personal Ministry Philosophy

20. Emphasis on reaching young people early

21. Understanding the value of youth ministry

22. Maintaining contentment in current role

23. Balancing family life with ministry demands

24. Practical Ministry Insights

25. Importance of quality resources and materials

26. Strategic approach to youth camps and events

27. Value of long-term relationship building

28. Handling crisis situations in youth ministry

29. Ministry Challenges

30. Dealing with team restructuring

31. Managing growth across multiple campuses

32. Balancing family involvement in ministry

33. Handling difficult ministry situations

Notable Quotes:

• "God cares more about his church than I do."

• "If a young person can get a hold of Jesus as a young person, think about a lifetime of being obedient to Jesus."

• "Be content in where God has you and sit out with everything you've got until God says so."

Practical Takeaways:

1. Invest in your family's involvement in ministry

2. Focus on long-term impact over short-term results

3. Maintain perspective during difficult seasons

4. Build sustainable ministry structures

5. Value the importance of reaching young people

6. Create strong team culture

7. Trust God's timing and direction

The episode concludes with a powerful prayer for ministry leaders serving in supporting roles, encouraging them to stay faithful in their calling and trust God's timing in their ministry journey.