Intro to Transition

A Time of Transition
Is your church in a time of Transition? When we use the term  “Transition” we mean the following:

  • The time between the departure of the former Lead Pastor and the arrival a new one
  • A decision to address this time intentionally – times of transition are windows of opportunity for churches to experience spiritual renewal, increased health, focused vision and mission prior to engaging in the pastoral search
  • Accessing the guidance and resources of trained Transitional Ministry Specialists to help the church effectively navigate through the season of Transition
  • A process distinct from that of engaging an interim pastor to fill some ministry roles while the search for a new Lead Pastor carries on

The decision to engage in an intentional season of Transition is made by the board of elders and they choose to engage either a transitional coach or a transitional pastor. 

Transitional Objectives

  • To hire a new Lead Pastor through a thoughtful, collaborative search process in dependence on the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
  • To welcome a new Lead Pastor to a healthy church that has experienced renewal – spiritually, relationally, organizationally and operationally.

Stages of Transition
Most churches usually work through a similar process during a time of Transition. However the details and amount of time and energy required to address each phase will vary from church to church.

  • Regaining Stability
  • Assessment of Church Health
  • Developing a Transitional Plan
  • Preparing for the Pastoral Search
  • Conducting the Pastoral Search
  • Hiring a Lead Pastor
  • Evaluation of the process

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