In the narrative of a church's history, the time between pastoral transitions provides a season of profound significance. Pastors, as navigators of strategy, imprint their mark upon the congregation, shaping its identity and trajectory. "I remember Pastor John's pivotal role in igniting our small group ministry," remembers one member. "Pastor Hugh's steadfast presence during crises was what held our church together," reflects another. Each pastor leaves an indelible imprint, influencing how the church perceives itself and its mission.
Yet, when the mantle of leadership is in transition, the church stands at a crossroads of inevitable change. It is a juncture where some members, disillusioned by the illusion of stasis, scramble to fill the void with personal agendas. Others, more reluctant to get involved, wait in the wings, observing the health of the transition before committing to help. However, amidst this flux, wise members seize the opportunity for introspection and prayer.
Enter the concept of the "self-study" – a structured reflection facilitated by guides like consultants, interim (transitional) pastors, or the local Baptist association. This introspective journey culminates in a 'church profile,' offering a panoramic view of past events, present challenges, and future hopes. Such a study serves as a compass, steering the church away from reactions and towards informed decisions.
Drawing from personal experience, it's evident that many churches succumb to the temptation of expediency in their quest for a new shepherd. Yet, the repercussions of hastily calling an ill-suited candidate can be beyond repair. I've witnessed firsthand the pitfalls of search committees settling for a poor fit or mediocrity, blinded by fatigue and overlooking warning signs. The aftermath seldom paints a rosy picture. My counsel to these committee volunteers is simple: patience, coupled with insights from seasoned observers, is crucial.
Temporarily halting the search may seem counterintuitive, but it's a wise investment of time. Selecting an external candidate to serve in the church mirrors an organ transplant – a delicate procedure requiring meticulous preparation. Thus, prayer, discernment, and a thorough self-study serve as indispensable preliminary tasks to this pivotal decision. Embrace the pause between pastors as an opportunity for enlightenment, seeking divine guidance from the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Don’t rush the journey; instead, let the spiritual discipline and virtue of patience fasten you to God’s guidance as you navigate the path ahead.
Addendum: Now, you may think this article doesn’t apply to you. Statistically, you will have your pastor for 5-6 years before a transition takes place; this varies from church to church. If the thoughts I have shared above don’t apply right now, hold on to this article for future reference. You will need to consider pastoral transition at some point. After all, we live in a world of swift transition, and we are all “interim.” None of us are permanent!
With sincere gratitude,
Christopher (Chris) W. Crain, MBA, M.Div., D.Min.
Executive Director
BMBA