To Move or Not to Move?

In youth ministry, the question arises whether or not it’s wise to move from one church to another after a set period of time.  There are different philosophies in regards to this question. Some feel that after you have worked in a church for five or more years, it would be wise to move. It is time for the youth and the church to see a new face.  The ministry needs to be refocused because you just get into your old habits.  A new start is good for both the church and for the youth pastor.

However, other opinions sing a different tune.  Youth ministry is always moving and just being in youth ministry would prevent you from ever becoming stale.  Also, the longer that you are in a church the better acquainted you are with the membership, which would make you more effective. Long term goals can be reached and witnessing the generations going through youth ministries is a blessing. It is also a blessing to see youth get older and become leaders of the church.

There are two sides, and I lean further to the second argument than the first.  However, at times, the Lord leads you to move to another church.  So, what are the blessings and precautions involved in a move?

One of the blessings of a move is that you can have a fresh start. There are new people with new opportunities.  However, before you move, take a hard look at the past ministries and examine them.  What are some of the good things that were done?  Why were they good?  Did you actually do ministry or did you have a lot of fun with a little “Christianity” sprinkled over top?  Be honest with yourself about your past ministry. This is not about beating yourself up from your experiences but it is about taking an honest look. Also, celebrate the faithfulness in ministry, even if it was not appreciated.  

Remember the mistakes that you have made in the past.  Even though you might be thinking that the mistakes are not attached to you any longer, remember them and learn from them. Make sure that you do not fall into the same trap that you did in the past. If you have not made mistakes in youth ministry, then get out of youth ministry because you have not done any ministry. 

When you go to a new church, do not jump into ministry and take over everything. You need to sit back and observe.  Remember that they did not hire you to fix things (even though they may have stated that or they are hoping that you will).  Working in the church is working with everyone.  So, when you arrive at the new church, sit back and get to know them.  After you have spent some time getting to know the church, work with them by helping them discover their call from God. You are not there to run the ministry and tell everyone what to do. You are not there to be the head person.  You are there to walk with people and discover God’s call. Therefore, be careful in your first year of ministry that you do not take over the present ministry. 

Ministry can be overwhelming. You can spend all your time working.  The Lord does not want this.  Set boundaries for the time that you work and stick to them. Let people know  your boundaries and allow them to challenge you on them. Also, don’t take yourself too seriously, relax and remember that God can get the tasks done a lot better without you.  So smile and enjoy.

Before accepting a position in another church, make sure that they will have a staff support team for you.  This team will meet regularly with you and discuss the ministry that you are involved with at the church you are serving. This team will give you honest feedback on the ministry: the areas in which you need to work harder, the areas in which you spend too much time, your strengths and your challenges.  Do not let this become an option because it can save you a lot of grief in the future.

So, whether you are considering taking a new position at a different church, being honest, enjoy the process and don’t jump too quick. Remember, pray often and search the depth of your soul. Seek God’s will. 

.................................

Ken Vis
Youth Pastor
Edmonton, AB