Getting Ready for the Next Guy
Getting Ready for the Next Guy: Transitional Pastor Training took place in the SCBO training room October 19. Chuck Deglow facilitated the training from his experience in leading over twenty churches during the transition of pastors. Twelve participants attended from all over Ohio and left the day with a booklet full of notes, books for further study, and a better understanding of the transitional pastor’s role.
Chuck shared with the group that a transitional pastor is an intentional way of leading a church family to navigate the whitewater of a pastor transition. The church without an under-shepherd (1 Peter 5:4) can be very vulnerable. The average time between pastors is between 9 and 18 months. Much can happen during that time to affect the church either positively or negatively. “The one purpose for this ministry is the glory of God,” Deglow emphasized.
Topics included:
- The stages through which each church will progress during the interim period — grieving, regrouping, and going forward
- Guiding the congregation through a review of their ministry effectiveness based upon historical trends in attendance, giving, baptisms, etc.
- Introducing the congregation to relevant current demographics and trends that indicate ministry opportunity
- Selecting and training a pastor search team
Often the church sees the time between pastors as a “hold things together, keep things going” period. Some people approach the time as a “wait and see” period. However, with effective leadership, the time can be productive — a time of growth spiritually, sending roots deep into His word and presence. Consistency in the pulpit will help steady the congregation during the uncertain days without a pastor. The transitional pastor’s primary task is to prepare the people for the next pastor and the changes that will inevitably come with him.
To connect with Chuck Deglow about transitional pastor questions, or for a list of those trained that may be available to help, please contact Steve Hopkins at SteveHopkins@scbo.org or 614.601.6280.
