Andrew Root's relational youth ministry as a means of fostering authenticity in youth

Abstract

In my experience as a youth worker, I notice youths struggling to discover their identity and ‘authentic’ self. This quest seems to have become augmented in the age of social media. Philosopher Charles Taylor describes this phenomenon as grounded in our cultural experience that seeks to create a self through an “ethic of authenticity.” However, Taylor argues that this quest for authenticity becomes problematic when it is individualistic and does not consider our relational nature, since the authentic self is a person and therefore relational. This implies that youth ministry, that seeks the true flourishing of youths, should assist youths’ quest for authenticity through building relationships. This is pastoral theologian Andrew Root’s approach to youth ministry as “relational ministry.” Root focuses on building authentic relationships in the light of humanity’s transcendental desire. In this dissertation, will present Andrew Root’s relational approach to youth ministry as a possible practical approach to help youth become more authentic selves in today’s culture. Dedication