Announcing *Flourish: A Journal of Progressive Ministry* & Call for Papers

 

I am thrilled to announce the launch of Flourish: A Journal of Progressive Ministry, a new publication dedicated to equipping and inspiring those engaged in faithful, progressive, and inclusive ministry with youth, children, and young adults. As the Managing Editor, I am excited to help create a space for theological reflection, practical creativity, and transformative ministry practices that nurture both people and the planet.

This is a much needed platform, as there isn't currently a journal that fills the space between blogs and full-blown academic journals. Our vision is that this will be a space for scholars, students, practitioners and pastors to share ideas and publish thoughtful theological work. Rooted in theological reflection and a commitment to justice, inclusion, and compassion in the ways of Jesus Christ, Flourish will provide a rich resource for ministry leaders who are passionate about shaping faith formation through critical reflection and tangible resources. Each issue will include:

🔹 Theological Praxis Essays – Deep reflections grounded in theology and theory that guide leaders in shaping their ministry approach for justice, inclusion, compassion, and creation care.

🔹 Reflective Ministry Practices – Theologically grounded practical tools, liturgies, discussion guides, and ministry strategies for real-world contexts.

🔹 Book Reviews – Critical insights into essential ministry resources and essential scholarship.

We are now accepting submissions for the inaugural issue, set for release in November 2025. We invite scholars, ministry leaders, and practitioners to contribute theological essays, practical ministry reflections, and resource-driven articles that engage progressive, inclusive, and justice-oriented approaches to faith formation. We are looking for pieces that offer theological rationale for ministry, challenge existing paradigms, or provide tangible resources for those ministering with emerging generations.

The theme for the inaugural issue is Defiant Hope, a concept first introduced at the 2024 Progressive Youth Ministry Conference. In a world marked by uncertainty and injustice, defiant hope is a bold commitment to transformation—resisting despair, fostering inclusion, and cultivating new possibilities in ministry with young people.

📅 Submission Deadline: June 15, 2025
📖 For submission guidelines and additional details, visit: http://pym.events/CallForPapers

Flourish will be published annually in print each November in conjunction with the Progressive Youth Ministry Conference, with new articles released monthly online to provide ongoing insight and inspiration throughout the year.

I hope you’ll join us in this endeavor to cultivate spaces where ministry helps young people flourish. I look forward to your contributions and to the conversations this journal will spark!