Leading a congregation and faith community through transition is challenging and rewarding and it is recognized both in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as well as other denominations as a specialized ministry. Whether it is a change in leadership or a changing neighborhood, it takes knowledge, skill, resilience, and spiritual strength to navigate the waters of transition in a way that allows a congregation and its leaders to be open to possibilities, go deeper, and thrive. The Art of Transitional Ministry offers training in the skills and understanding necessary for leading a congregation and faith community in transition. In particular, presentations will be on the five Focus Points of a church in transition, systems theory, conflict management and change theory as well as the Process Tasks of an interim leader. Participants come from a variety of mainline traditions, which creates rich opportunities for additional learning. There are two week-long courses of study offered concurrently along with a spouse track.
Week I
Week I is the basic education course for pastors and congregational leaders who are serving or are considering serving in congregations that are in the midst of transition; yet, it is good continuing education for all faith leaders as we are in the midst of change within our culture and world. This intensive 30-hour course provides basic understandings for consciously leading congregations through changes in context, identity, and leadership. Week I is appropriate for any temporary transitional ministry leader, including interim and designated pastors, as well as installed pastors serving congregations in the midst of change. It is also appropriate for clergy and laity serving in an official governing body capacity.
Week II
Week II is for pastors and leaders serving in congregations and faith communities in the midst of transitions in leadership, culture, context, and ministry. Participants will use their current ministry situation to reflect on the leader’s role and tasks in times of transition. Completion of week I within the past five years and current service in a transitional or interim ministry position is required for participation in this course. If you are not clear your context would meet this requirement, you are encouraged to contact the faculty team leader.
Spouse Track
Spouse Track is designed for spouses of pastors either considering or already in interim positions. Spouses are encouraged to participate in the transitional/interim ministry spouse track. Regardless of the level of involvement in the transitional ministry context, it is good to understand the unique characteristics of this specialized ministry. Together, through a variety of activities, spouses will develop a basic understanding of transitional/interim ministry, explore their fit within its rewards and challenges, and learn ways to strengthen their support system for this time with their spouse.
Registration
For more information on course fees and accommodations, please click on the “RATES & REGISTRATION” tab above.
Sponsored by Montreat Conference Center, in cooperation with the Interim Ministry Consortium.
