The author writes that his purpose in writing the book was to help readers find their sense of vocation. He writes, "It is my hope that the chapters in this book, all of which were initially presented at the Callings Conference, will help the reader better understand his or her sense of vocation as well" (Miller xv)
They write, "In many discussions and activities revolving around better understanding and helping teenagers, one aspect of their lives seems frequently to go unnoticed, unconsidered, unexamined. That is their religious and spiritual lives" (Smith, and Denton 4)
Many of the ideas and methods the authors provide aren't new, but they illustrate how these ministries work and who they serve, which is an important aspect of the book. They write, "In a two-step invitational strategy, the social ministry brings beneficiaries into the physical or relational space of the congregation, where they can be encouraged to attend other church services at which a gospel message is presented" (Unruh, and Sider 140)