Peer Ministry Leadership

Leadership Training

PML STORIES

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PML St. John’s in Kasson, MN

By Sharon Johnson © 2012 Every Day 
Phil Francis gives the youth of his church a feeling of purpose. He has 11 new Peer Ministry Leaders, receiving training for the first time, and 17 previously trained Peer Ministry Leaders, participating in various ways.

Leadership training gives youth active devotionals to use. The PML program also
gives them the rationale, skills, and opportunities to develop relationships that otherwise would not be explored. St John’s youth start to build confidence, conversational skills, and the ability to stand up for themselves. They develop relationship skills. They understand that they have a purpose in their schools, community, and church.

Phil Francis is the Director of Youth for St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kasson, MN. Kasson and the neighboring town of Mantorvile have a combined population of 6,000. While the culture of the church is rural, it also has members that work in Rochester and choose to make their homes in Kasson. There are two pastors and three program directors serving the youth of St. John’s.

Phil has been leading the Peer Ministry  Leadership program for eight years. “This has been one of the best years because of the leadership of the participants. There are three other adult Peer Ministry Leaders who are the lifeblood of our program. One has been involved now for five consecutive years! Meghan, our youth and family intern, states that Peer Ministry also benefits her and has helped her find a deeper meaning with her work at St. John’s.” Looks like they have found their “purpose.”

Phil follows the training manual, knowing that it will take all year to complete it. At
times, a lesson may open up a new discussion, but the conversation will come full circle back to the training. Throughout the year, Phil keeps his goals in mind.

  • Are they learning caring skills?
  • Are they growing in faith and values?
  • Do they see a purpose in their service?

The trained Peer Ministry group meets and works together. The leaders lead and share, stretching their comfort level. By spring, Phil has built up the trust level and feeling of purpose to allow for the success of St. John’s Peer Ministry Leadership.

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PML Texas Retreat


Tom Schwolert from Faith Lutheran in in Flower Mound, TX recently led a retreat that included 50 youth from his and neighboring churches. Tom’s continues to be one of the bet in the country at building spiritual leadership in youth and the adults who surround him. Take a few minutes to scan the following quotes from some of the participants.

PML helps me listen to people who need to talk to someone. I helps people get through had times without having to face the judgement of others. Everyone needs someone to talk to. – Jared

PML helps people and me realize that faith is a light. – Lindsey

Listening is such a huge aspect of helping our peers and it’s great to be in an environment where we can learn and practice that. – Jazzy

This weekend brought me closer to old friends and new friends. I realized the importance of having a peer who is able to minister to friends. – Katlin

I have learned how to respect others and value them more by listening and loving. I understand more about myself and others through God’s love. – Rebecca

PML helps spread the word without being pushy or in people’s face. It helps me be a better friend and leader. – Sydney

This weekend helped me grow in my abilities as a listener as well as meeting some great people who will strengthen me and my faith – Michael

I like PML because it introduced me to a group of people that understands and learns good social skills all tied with our faith. – Caleb

The weekend helped me meet new people, get closer to people I know and help me realize that God is everywhere we look. – Scott

PML is important because it can be used to help in everyday life situations. –Max

PML is about meeting new people and learning to listen to others while creating friendships. Now that I know the skills I can help others grow in their faith and become closer to God. – Sarah

PML helps people help others. – Jason

PML is important because everyone deserves to be ministered to. It is a gift that can be given anytime and anywhere. – Delaney