The Unexpected Call to Ministry
Johanna Turner didn’t always plan to go into ministry. After college, she had different career aspirations, but God had other plans. As she volunteered in the church—discipling students—Johanna felt a deep sense of calling taking root in my heart.
Growing up in a faith-filled home provided the foundation. Johanna watched her parents serve faithfully, which subtly shaped her heart for ministry long before she recognized it. But the transformation happened gradually as she invested time in students and walked alongside them in their faith journeys. What began as simple service evolved into something more profound—doors kept opening, and what started as volunteering turned into a clear calling to step into leadership as a youth pastor.
Today, she serves as a Long Beach Fuel Network Coordinator and Middle School Youth Pastor at Grace Long Beach, finding deep joy in connecting with others, hearing their stories, and walking alongside them in their faith journeys.
Creating Community in Urban Ministry
Ministry can feel isolating at times. That’s why we’ve created spaces for connection and collaboration, working to bridge gaps and ensure that no leader carries the weight of ministry alone. By fostering these relationships, we’re strengthening the foundation of youth ministry in our community.
While our network doesn’t have a large number of urban leaders yet, we’re actively serving in an urban city and students in meaningful ways. One of our primary focuses is providing community, encouragement, and shared resources that equip leaders to serve their students effectively.
A Meaningful Ministry Moment
One especially meaningful moment in youth ministry has been our collaboration through the new Alpha Youth Series. A handful of dedicated youth leaders committed to an eight-week journey using this series in their ministries, and some of us even hosted it together!
Walking through this series as a community was truly powerful—equipping the next generation to create safe spaces for real conversations about faith. The transformation was visible as we watched students open up, wrestle with questions, and engage in meaningful discussions about their spiritual journeys. Witnessing their growth in faith was such a gift.
The Power of Community
Perhaps the most impactful resource for our ministry hasn’t been a formal program but rather the intentional creation of community through our monthly lunch gatherings. These regular meetings have become invaluable spaces to connect, pray for one another, and share insights from our various ministries.
The intentional practice of coming together regularly has strengthened our leadership, deepened our support for one another, and continually reminds us that we’re not alone in this work. This community has become the backbone of our effectiveness with students.
Putting Community into Practice
Building meaningful youth ministry doesn’t happen by accident—it grows through intentional choices and rhythms that nurture both leaders and students. Here are a few practical ways to strengthen your ministry through community:
Create Intentional Community:
- Regular gatherings (like monthly lunches) create relational depth among youth leaders, preventing isolation and fostering collaboration.
- Youth ministry effectiveness is rooted in consistently showing up—for students and fellow leaders alike.
Use Existing Resources to Build Momentum:
- Partnering with other ministries or leaders (such as using a common curriculum like Alpha Youth Series) strengthens impact and builds a broader sense of unity.
- Tools like the Alpha Youth Series can spark meaningful conversations among students and offer shared language and rhythm for different ministries.
Model Vulnerability and Openness:
- When leaders open up to each other in prayer and conversation, it models for students how to engage authentically with faith questions and struggles.
- Instead of waiting until burnout, proactively create spaces of mutual support and encouragement.
Join Our Network
If you’re passionate about youth ministry and looking for a supportive community, we’d love to connect with you. Follow us on Instagram @fuelnetwork.lb and join our group chat to stay updated on events, resources, and opportunities to collaborate.
