A few months ago, our congregation was rocked by three deaths in two days. One of these deaths was the father of two teens. He took his own life.
What followed was deep and messy grief—a grief weighed down by an assortment of feelings and expressions, including abandonment, guilt, anger, resentment, hopelessness, loss…and questions, many questions.
Grief counsel—or just the simplicity and importance of being there for teenagers in their pain—is some of the most difficult work youth workers may have to do. It is work that requires fortitude and love. It is work that requires care and careful steps.
Likewise, not all grief work can be accomplished by youth workers, pastors and caring people. Some work is longer and deeper and requires professional attention. To that end, youth leaders should keep a handy list of respected therapists and counselors who can continue ongoing work with teens and their families. I’ve learned that this is one of the most important files in my office—and the list of therapists and family counselors I refer to has grown longer through the years.
Grief work is important, especially for teenagers. Youth workers can be some of the most helpful friends engaged in the work of emotional and relational healing.
