Jonathan,
How do you have closure for a youth group when there is a change in leadership? My wife and I are working with a youth group. In the beginning we were the only leaders, we had no staff, or volunteers- so we got really close to the teens in our group. There is now 3 other Male adults that help us out. But now my wife and I are moving from NY to CA. What is the best way to move on to where God is calling us, with out having the youth think that we are just leaving them? I know that many of these kids have already had a parent leave them.
Steve
Answer
Steve,
Thanks for the email.
That's always a tough one. No easy answer. The best thing to do is be very honest and let them know ASAP. This is the most important thing. They might respond poorly if they hear it from their parents via the local gossip in the choir loft.
Then continue to serve for the reminder of your time there and prove that you love them by being there. Don't fade away like a “lame duck” president. (I use that strictly as the definition of the guy in office who does nothing once the new guy is voted in.)
It's not easy to leave. Tears and hurt feelings are natural. You can't change the situation. But you CAN be a light and a comfort IN the situation.
Hope that helps.
God Bless,
Jonathan McKee
The Source for Youth Ministry
www.TheSource4YM.com
