This week, we said goodbye to the youth pastor at our church. She and her husband have served for six years, ending a multi-decade ministry serving youth and I’ve had the honor to serve under them for the past three years. We spent their last night eating cake, telling stories, looking at photos, and honoring the incredible ways they have invested in so many over the years.
A highlight was spending 45 minutes as each student and adult leader (both current and past) spoke words of affirmation over them. One by one. Lots of tears, smiles, and heartwarming moments.
There’s something really special when we take time in a group to just speak life-giving words over someone. We don’t do it enough, and it’s an incredible feeling to be seen at that level with more than a few people.
Try it out at your next gathering. It will be awkward at first, but lead the way by inviting your group to pause and pour into an individual together.