April 12, 2020

Eight Major Phases of Transition

​Our experience in working with churches in transition has helped us to identify eight major phases to a healthy transition process. Some phases require more attention than others depending on the circumstances. These phases are not necessarily a step by step sequential process; often there is overlap between some of the phases. 

Transitional Phase	​Description
​Closure	​Assisting the Lead Pastor (and their family) and the church family to finish well, conclude the mode of relationship, mark the occasion with respect/memory/celebration and dignity.
​Regaining Stability	​Addressing the urgent and emergent needs of the church and its ministry in light of the departure of the Lead Pastor. Space to grieve the loss and let go of the past without being rushed on to a new beginning.
​Assessment of Church Health	​Listening to God and His people about how we are, who we are, where we are…and where we are headed. Exploring questions of church health, mission, vision, identity and context in preparation for future search.
​Developing a Transitional Plan	​Creating ways to address the health and vision needs of the church to effectively maintain the current ministry while in transition without a lead pastor.
​Preparing for the Pastoral Search	​Creating a search team, understanding the process and resources available to conduct an effective pastoral search.
​Conducting the Pastoral Search	​Doing the research, interviews, reference checks, pre-candidating, candidating and prayerful discernment needed to reach a decision.
​Hiring a Lead Pastor	​The steps needed to complete the hiring process and welcome a new Lead Pastor effectively.
​Evaluation	​Reflection together about what we have learned and experienced throughout this process.