This book is about trumpeting a call to action to educate, empower, and transform our youth into flourishing adults; a time-tested blueprint to help you navigate the maze of training up our youth. I guarantee that what you are about to learn is no mere theory. The vast majority of our youth are being lost and crippled by dysfunctional families, closed-minded faith communities, underperforming schools, gangs, violence, and poverty. If you believe that it is your responsibility to help “train up our youth in the way that they should go,” then this book will help you fulfill such a biblical mandate and thus play your part in saving our youth, our future. Any sincere person who reads and seriously implements the life-changing principles of this book cannot help but become a stronger advocate for our youth.

— Rev. Dr. D. Darrell Griffin,
D. Min. Pastor, Oakdale Covenant Church

This guide provides both the model and the standard for those leaders who desire a relevant and engaging mentorship program of excellence and accountability. As a ROPE pilot church, we were able to witness so many of our youth and mentors reach a level of relational awareness, openness, and understanding that was refreshing and real. The potential for such authentic relationships was realized because of the ROPE program. There is now a greater appreciation for both “self” and “neighbor” due to the faith-based and communal approach of ROPE. The call to reflect and discuss have led our young people to a greater level of personal development and perseverance. We are so very grateful for our continued experience with this program. It is both innovative and necessary.

— Rev. Dr. Joseph B. Gordon,
Pastor, Carter Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal
Church

The ROPE manual and training guide is an explicit and practical manual to accomplish the hopes, prayers, and dreams of our African ancestors. Focusing on the historical power and relationships between the black church and the black community, the ROPE program offers a literal three-strand cord that binds, strengthens, and supports transformation for the next generations of black community. Although this program and its manual were conceived for and with an African American sensibility, I envision any racial, ethnic, or economic community can be greatly empowered by its implementation.

— Dr. Mary Adams Trujillo,
Ph.D., Professor Emerita, North Park University

The ROPE Program responds to the need to enrich the souls of our children. The book is a step-by-step manual designed to mentor and impact adolescents during the vulnerable years that precede adulthood by infusing them with wisdom, knowledge and understanding about topics that connect us to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Although the lessons provide a model to help youth live productive lives, the book enriches the lives of both the adults and the youth who are embarking on the journey through the rites of passage to adulthood. Thisis a great resource to be utilized to help our children mature in a positive and enlightened way.

— Dr. Deborah C. Umrani,
Ph.D.; Educator