In this episode Bo and Dave have an important conversation with Dianne DeKoning on transition in ministry. How do you plan for transition from one ministry to the next? In this episode we will look at how to make a God honoring transition when the time comes. Whether it's a planned transition or a surprise to you, this conversation will help guide you in any situation.
I have been in ministry for 20+ years, in various sized churches in the Minneapolis area. My passion is helping people be the best version of who God created them to be. Through mentoring, coaching, speaking, and pastoral care, I find the greatest joy watching others live into their God-given gifts. I am married to Andrew, and together we are raising three young, vivacious children.
email: deanndra21@gmail.com
Successful Transitions Notes:
- Who & when do I tell I’m transitioning
- Who: create a list of people that should hear from you. Your manager/supervisor should be at the very top. Don’t tell people to not tell, other than your spouse or LEAD222 coach. There are no secrets so tell your manager first. You do not need to give that person a “heads up”. We think that’s polite, but it’s not necessary and creates awkwardness in the event your “next” falls through.
- When: There is no good time or bad time. There are better times than others. Sometimes this is the end of a ministry season, sometimes not. Once you have a meeting with your supervisor, the ball is rolling to communicate with others. Be prepared.
2. What should I prepare before I resign?
- Write your resignation letter. Keep it short, don’t burn bridges with your words.
- Set up your volunteers for success. Consider “If I wasn’t here, would my volunteers know what to do (lead a game, give a talk, do announcements, etc)?”
- Copy all electronic files you want to take with you before you hand in your resignation letter.
- Leave documents accessible, like mission trip plans made to-date.
- Prepare to leave the day you hand in your resignation letter. They likely won’t walk you to the door, but can move up your last day to that day.
- Prepare your WHY that you will share, an elevator speech, a concise statement. Don’t think on your feet on this, prepare it. Write it out, memorize it. Everyone hears the same thing from you, and keeps you from saying too much that might not be useful or helpful.
- Prepare to ask for an exit interview when you turn in your resignation letter.
- Prepare your heart and be aware of your own emotions. Try not to emotionally or physically disengage. Soon you will be carrying the emotions of others, you need yours in check.
- Take that list of people who need to know, and consider HOW will they know and from who? This can be done in conjunction with your supervisor, but prepare a draft.
3. How can I prepare emotionally and spiritually before I announce my departure?
- What should I prepare before I resign? and ask them to pray for you.
- Work through your own emotions--journal, pray, see a counselor.
- Listen to what God is saying to you.
- Trust that God will catch you, and will care for those you leave behind (students, parents, volunteers)
4. How can I encourage students as I am leaving?
- Acknowledge their feelings. They are real.
- Affirm what you know about God-he’s always there for them.
- Encourage them in their own spiritual walk. Share your hopes for them--that they would keep growing in Christ.
Lead222 Youth Ministry Staffing
www.lead222ymstaffing.com
Contact Dave at Dave@lead222.com
