A work-book that truly works Maria Harris has combined careful reflection with many practical insights and activities for all those who want to carry out the ministry of the whole church for and with and by young people. Letty M. Russell Associate Professor of Theology Yale Divinity School I know very few persons who have thought through so many questions affecting youth as has Maria Harris in 'Portrait of Youth Ministry'. Especially important is her consistent vision of empowering youth to direct their own lives. This book brings ministry to a new state in its development. Michael Warren St. John's University Jamaica, New York Out of her rich history in religious education at many levels Maria Harris offers a New Testament frame of reference for her scholarly and existential approach to youth ministry: didache (teaching), leiturgia (prayer), koinonia (community), kerygma (advocacy), diakonia (troublemaking) . . . The bibliography and ingenious activities at the end of each chapter are extremely helpful tools. Maria Harris believes that youth ministers need more than generosity and enthusiasm for the long haul. They need to be led into the depth of their own lives and have a grasp of the larger issues of our own culture. Dennis J. Geaney, O.S.A. Associate Pastor, St. Victor Parish Calumet City, Illinois When I finished reading the book I felt that I had attended a continuing education workshop.... Bread, nuts, and bolts all in one package Lois I. Peeler Division of Education United Church Board for Homeland Ministries Youth ministers, pastoral associates, parish councils, parents will find here an excellent resource for clarifying their goals and commitments to youth ministry. Sr. Claire E. Lowery Assistant Professor of Theology and Pastoral Ministry Boston College