Some endings can be far easier to deal with than others. Time specific endings given in advance can be far easier to deal with emotionally and mentally whereas unexpected change leaves a deeper grieving process. In the current financial climate there are those that have been given redundancy papers without warning and the cost to their emotional and mental health may be strong. They have had no time to prepare themselves for the things coming their way and so it has become more difficult to adapt to new things overnight. The pain is not just of those who are leaving but also for those that remain. They have to learn new systems, new responsibilities and all this without their friend/colleague to support them.

I am uncertain that you can leave any youth ministry role “well” as there are such a varied list of expectations from those people with whom you engage. I believe it is possible is to prepare people for the leaving and to leave a decent platform for those that may follow. This will allow for the opportunity for new growth and development for others.  How are you preparing?