Kara Powell on Calling, Youth Formation, and the New Generation Rising

In this episode of We Are Vineyard, Jay talks with Kara Powell about feeling called to youth ministry early in life, her academic work in practical theology, and some of the research that has practical implications for youth ministry. Kara also shares some steps towards prioritizing kids and youth in a church, and how youth benefit the church. 

Kara Powell, PhD, is the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute (FYI), the founder of the TENx10 Collaboration, and the Chief of Leadership of Leadership Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary. The mission of FYI is to equip diverse leaders and parents so faithful young people can change our world. Named by Christianity Today as one of “50 Women to Watch”, Kara completed her PhD in Practical Theology from Fuller Seminary in 2000, an MDiv from Bethel Theological Seminary in 1994, and a BA degree with Honors from Stanford University in 1991. In addition to her roles at Fuller Seminary, Kara is the author or co-author of Future-Focused Church, Faith Beyond Youth Group, 3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager, Faith in an Anxious World, Growing With, Growing Young, The Sticky Faith Guide for Your Family, Sticky Faith Curriculum, Can I Ask That?, Deep Justice Journeys, Essential Leadership, Deep Justice in a Broken World, Deep Ministry in a Shallow World, and the Good Sex Youth Ministry Curriculum.

Kara lives in Pasadena, CA, with her husband, Dave, who is a medical device engineer, and their 3 teenage and young adult children, Nathan, Krista, and Jessica.  

 

Show Notes:
Vineyard USA’s Day of Giving 2025 

Alpha Youth

November 19, 2025