Julianna Shults and Mark Kiessling

Julianna Shults is a DCE serving as Program Manager of Resources and Leadership for LCMS Youth Ministry. With a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Community Development, Julianna served congregations in Florida and Chicago. She co-authored Relationships Count and contributed to other books from CPH and co-hosts the podcast End Goals. Julianna is a self-proclaimed nerd, coffee snob and obsessive aunt.

Rev. Mark R. Kiessling serves as the director of LCMS Youth Ministry. In that role, he supports the leadership, service, resourcing, and networking functions of LCMS Youth Ministry. Kiessling graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (2006). Kiessling is married to Beth (Timm), who teaches Preschool at Christ Community Lutheran School in Kirkwood, MO.

Affirming Baptismal Identity in Your Youth

Julianna Shults and Mark Kiessling
April 11, 2024

Early adolescence is an especially formative time in the life of a Christian—not only as youth take ownership of their faith for a future of following Christ, but also as they contribute to the Body of Christ in the “here and now” at the congregational level. The following post, excerpted from Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry, expounds on this with practical advice from Youth Ministry professionals, Julianna Shults and Mark Kiessling.

Read More

Teenagers sit in a circle in conversation

3 Ways to Foster Young Leaders at Your Church

Julianna Shults and Mark Kiessling
February 8, 2024

Healthy youth ministry recognizes the capability of teens and how God can work through them as servant leaders. Youth leaders can set high expectations for young people, engaging them regularly in opportunities to give input, serve, and lead. In living out their vocation as adult members of a congregation, post-confirmation youth can feel a sense of ownership, build relationships, and positively impact their congregation and community.

Read More