The Natural Stages of Youth Ministry Development

What it takes to start a youth ministry is very different from what it takes to grow one or what is needed to expand its impact after it is healthy. Youth ministries follow certain patterns of development, and require a shift in focus from the leader at each stage. Not understanding these stages can create barriers to growth, since a youth leader will often not naturally concentrate on the right things. Looking at development of Christ's ministry, how do we understand these stages, and how do we lead our youth group through them?