Church Relations
Youth Leaders
Welcome to the Youth Leaders page at Mount Vernon Nazarene University!
As a ministry of the Nazarene congregations of Ohio, West Virginia, and Eastern Kentucky, MVNU is grateful to partner with youth pastors and ministry leaders to support spiritual growth, engagement, and connection.
Here you’ll find resources, upcoming events, and opportunities designed especially for youth groups — including campus experiences, leadership events, and ways to bring MVNU to your students — all aimed at encouraging young people in their faith journey and strengthening your ministry efforts.
How can youth leaders earn free MVNU gear?
Our Events
What is SonFest at MVNU?
Experience an amazing all-day lineup of Christian recording artists, fun activities, good food, and an awesome reminder of God’s love!
What is the MVNU Explore Conference for youth leaders?
Help your students step into their calling! Bring your youth group to Explore Conference for a meaningful experience centered on worship, mentorship, and spiritual growth. Students will explore God’s call to ministry through interactive sessions, connect with other students, learn from ministry leaders, and spend time in prayer and small groups as they seek God’s direction.
Clergy Kids Retreat
Since the 1st Clergy Kids (CK) Retreat, we’ve allowed large chunks of time for students to play, laugh, pray, relax, and hangout; in super-sized awesome suites; with great meals; and meaningful sessions of worship, story-telling, and small groups. The retreat is led by adult CK's who know intimately about the blessings, challenges, and joys of the CK life. Teen's lives are transformed through the retreat and lifelong friendships are formed. It’s amazing to watch God bring encouragement, healing, hope and new perspectives during our short time together.
What is the MVNU Breakaway event for prospective students?
Want your students to experience a day in the life of a Christian college campus? Applied and accepted students spend 24-hours in the shoes of an MVNU student. Stay in the dorms, attend class, eat in the cafeteria, worship in chapel, and meet future classmates and roomies.
MSO: Middle School Only
Youth groups and school groups of 6th-8th graders are invited to attend this action-packed, fun-filled event!
Music and Ministry
Our traveling music group, Transformed, is available for worship services, camps, retreats, teen gatherings and other special events.
Ministry Candidates and Interns
OK, so some of you are looking to hire a youth pastor. We've got some of the best candidates graduating this spring. And, youth leaders, you could use a little help during summer, right? Hire an MVNU student intern! For more information, contact Professor Jenn Ballenger, at jennifer.ballenger@mvnu.edu.