Check-In & Training for Churches in Transition

Dr. Lovett H. Weems Jr., senior consultant at the Lewis Center for Church Leadership, identifies four key stages during pastoral transition: Leaving begins when a pastor learns they will be moving to a new ministry and continues through the relocation day. Entry begins upon the pastor’s arrival at the new location and typically lasts about six months. Remember, transition begins before the move and continues afterward. While the change of formal position may be marked by a date, transition is largely an internal and emotional process for everyone involved. The Start-Up Period usually lasts from six to eighteen months, as the pastor builds credibility and grows in understanding of God’s calling for the congregation’s next faithful step. The First Chapter is a multi-year period of pastoral ministry shaped by mutual discernment. It lays the foundation for addressing current challenges and opportunities and for building future ministry together. Most of you in churches with new …