If there is one area of “ending” that I think I do well, it’s this (and it is pretty simple, but also one of those “duh” things, that is, obvious but easy to miss): At the end of every youth group meeting, I pronounce a blessing on the group. Sometimes it’s a straightforward biblical benediction, such as the one from Numbers. Other times it is more of a Nooma type blessing that ties in the topic that we’ve been discussing. (If you’ve seen Bell’s videos you know what I mean, “Now may you…”). The thing with a blessing is that it is powerful. Some time ago I was reminded of the power of our words (both to bless and curse) and I made a conscious effort to speak blessings more. The great thing about pronouncing a blessing at the end is that a kid could be present the whole night and not engaged at all. They might be closed to the Spirit and somewhat hard hearted. At the very least, however, by simply being in the room, they will be blessed. It’s a gift I can give my students each week and it is something that I feel privileged to do.

Brian Estrella

Youth Pastor

Riverside Covenant Church

Riverside, RI

Before ending anything I think it is vital that we pray through everything that we start! Often times we do things because we can not because “we must!” If we do what God wants us to do our end of things will be a natural celebration. We want to minimize the “ends” that come due to bad planning, praying and implementation.

We have an annual end of year LUAU with the entire ministry (last year we roasted a real pig…still talked about). This marks the moving of grades (8th to HS and 5th to Junior High)…it also begins our summer schedule (a scaled back version of regular year).

Ending well begins with starting well. I think it is important to set time lines for small groups, monthly gatherings and all other things we start. Set clear and reasonable goals, and if they are unmet, establish triggers that give you the freedom and indicates that something needs to end. Have a plan in place for an end of ___________celebration to mark the conclusion of this or that.

At that celebration identify a few students to give a testimony of how the “ministry opportunity” impacted them or have a video with highlights from the “ministry opportunity”.

Finally, before ending something pray thoroughly through the issues causing death (or the end) and identify what could be done differently…perhaps have a plan to start something new within a few weeks that incorporates those corrected issues identified earlier.

Aaron Felty

Youth Pastor

Plymouth Covenant Church

Plymouth, MN