Congregational life includes change and transition as well. Because the nature of professional ministry involves deep relationships and emotions, pastoral transitions can be disruptive of congregational mission and ministry. Pastoral relationships are of a different character than most business/professional relationships, so attention must be paid to intentional transition time between pastoral calls. In such times of transition, interim pastors can help congregations face these challenges.

WHAT IS AN INTERIM PASTOR?

Sometimes called a transitional minister, this handbook assumes that an interim pastor is one who serves after a settled pastor leaves and before a new settled pastor starts. 

During pastoral transitions, interim pastors can help congregations face particular challenges. The interim pastor is more than just a placeholder until the “real pastor” comes. There is much to do during these holy moments of transition and change. The interim pastor works with the congregational leadership through the tasks of looking at the past, planning and implementing transition, and looking toward the future. The interim pastor helps a congregation discern what God is calling them to be and do next. The interim pastor assists the congregation in completing assessments, self-study and the Ministry Site Profile (the official document presented to pastoral candidates to introduce them to your congregation).

The synod staff person working with the congregation will help identify what interim pastor may be most appropriate, as well as who is available. 

The interim pastor is appointed by the bishop. If more than one candidate is available, synod staff may present multiple candidates to the congregation for feedback and a final decision. 

Based on congregational feedback, the Metropolitan Chicago Synod office and synod council will help the congregation determine what special gifts or skills would be most necessary in an interim pastor.

Contact Pastor Carla Thompson Powell, associate to the bishop, for more information about interim ministry in the MCS. 

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