The resignation of a Lead Pastor is a profound event in the life of a church. Inevitably it raises many questions and touches the heart of the community life of a congegration. In most cases when a staff member resigns, they submit their resignation to their supervisor or the Lead Pastor. When a Lead Pastor resigns, it is usually to both the District Superintendent and the Chair of the Board of Elders. What happens next can do much to set the tone for a healthy transition within the church community. We recognize that not all pastoral departures are easy situations. Sometimes significant differences of opinion exist. Additionally, the actual process of resignation and how it gets commuincated can add further stress for church leaders and congregations alike.
We provide support for churches experiencing pastoral transition. Setting up a meeting with the District Superintendent when a pastor resigns is a pro-active step to get started. It provides a way to talk about how pastors and churches alike can be prepared to walk through the departure of a Lead Pastor in as healthy a manner as possible. This includes preparing to address such matters as healthy protocols, communication strategies, employment standards, severance considerations, and exit interviews. In addition it is our desire to assist in developing a game plan to help church boards to work through the season of transition - the time between the departure of a Lead Pastor and the arrival of new one. Transitional pastors and consultants work closely with our District Superintendent to provide help, guidance and support for churches in transtion.
Contact the District Office for further information.
