Exploring Faith: A Conversation with Pastor Kirby Neely on Episode 4
- coltstraub4
- Apr 14
- 2 min read

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:
Personal Development & Growth
Current reading includes "Fish!" for team culture development
Reading "Grit" with his daughter to develop perseverance
Importance of maintaining continuous learning in ministry
Ministry Journey & Calling
Received call to ministry at winter camp in 9th grade
Started serving in youth ministry immediately after his calling
Transitioned from materialistic goals to kingdom-focused purpose
Keys to Longevity in Youth Ministry
Making ministry a family affair
Involving family members in ministry activities
Looking at ministry success through a long-term lens
Celebrating the "long-term harvest" of student development
Team Building & Leadership
Managing team transitions
Rebuilding ministry teams while maintaining momentum
Creating sustainable ministry structures
Developing future-focused leadership strategies
Personal Ministry Philosophy
Emphasis on reaching young people early
Understanding the value of youth ministry
Maintaining contentment in current role
Balancing family life with ministry demands
Practical Ministry Insights
Importance of quality resources and materials
Strategic approach to youth camps and events
Value of long-term relationship building
Handling crisis situations in youth ministry
Ministry Challenges
Dealing with team restructuring
Managing growth across multiple campuses
Balancing family involvement in ministry
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:
Invest in your family's involvement in ministry
Focus on long-term impact over short-term results
Maintain perspective during difficult seasons
Build sustainable ministry structures
Value the importance of reaching young people
Create strong team culture
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.
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