Many churches today find themselves in frequent transition, whether due to the changing culture, the struggles of mainline churches, or the changing nature of mission. Interim Ministry in Action helps guide churches and their leadership through these times of change. The book will guide readers step-by-step through the process of how and why to decide to call an interim minister, the process for deciding what’s next, and more. Each chapter concludes with exercises for readers, search committees, or boards to illustrate key themes and help them determine the best path forward.

Effective interim ministry depends on strong partnership between the interim minster and congregation. Lay leaders of congregations preparing for such a transition will value the expert guidance provided by over a dozen experienced interim pastors. What is interim ministry all about? What needs to happen during the interim? What should leaders and members expect from the interim pastor and themselves during this transition? What other resources are available for congregations?

Interim Ministry: Positive Change in a Time of Transition contains in-depth case studies of two short-term interim appointments. This work goes well beyond simply offering theories and methodologies on how to do interim ministry. Instead it details concrete examples of how the initial goals of the interim pastor may be implemented through programs, group interaction, pastoral care, sermons, and written communication. The first interim appointment followed the death of a beloved pastor after a two-year battle with cancer. The second interim began in the midst of a church meltdown following an appointment change of senior pastor. Both interim appointments began in a time of crisis—the first marked by deep grief and the second saturated with disillusionment and even some despair. In spite of the initial environments of high anxiety and discouragement, both churches were able to regain a sense of hope and redefine or reclaim their church identity. Indeed both churches experienced real positive change in the midst of very difficult circumstances. This book was written to be a catalyst for professional reflection and to serve as a model for being a transformational agent for churches in need of a more hopeful and fruitful future.

Transition is the word we use to describe the time following significant change. In congregations, that change might be the departure of the pastor, a catastrophe such as Hurricane Katrina or 9/11, or simply the changes caused by growth. Transition calls for clergy with special training to respond to the needs generated by the special time. “Task, training, and time limit” are the hallmarks of transitional ministry. Trained intentional interim clergy must have the skill and experience to lead congregations during transition. However, transitional or interim ministry has a bad reputation in some places. As one diocesan leader said, “We have never had a church in this diocese that was so bad off that an interim was needed.” Indeed, there are some “sick” churches, but most congregations have some good things happening and some things that need attention. Intentional interim ministry can be medicine for the sick, but in most cases it is better compared to vitamins that are taken to promote health. This book seeks to clear up misconceptions about transitional ministry and present an accurate and up-to-date picture of transitional ministry and to describe the various settings in which this specialized ministry can be helpful. Chapter authors, all expert in transitional ministry in mainline Protestant denominations, include: Robert Friedrich, John Keydel, George Martin, Loren Mead, Barry Miller, Nancy Miller, Ineke Mitchell, Ken Ornell, Molly Dale Smith, and Rob Voyle.

This book is a guide through the problems and possibilities of interim ministry in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) It is full of biblical and theological insight as well as practical wisdom.

A period of interim ministry poses unique challenges and opportunities for both congregations and ministers. Much more than a “caretaker” ministry, an interim ministry can help a congregation navigate and get the most out of a time between settled ministers. In this practical and insightful volume, interim ministers and other congregational leaders provide a road map for a transformative and fulfilling interim period. First published in 2013, In the Interim quickly became an indispensable resource for congregations, their leaders, interim ministers, and all involved in transitional ministry. In its second edition, editors Barbara Child and Keith Kron and contributors retain all of the practical strategies and keen insight of the original while also examining how interim ministry is adapting to a rapidly changing world. Included are updates on the advent of developmental and “jump start” transition ministries.

As the world changes, so do people's expectations of their faith community and clergy. This book uses three case studies to speak to religious professionals about the challenges they face, to provide readers with specific, user-friendly techniques to become more aware of how they function, and to learn new ways to lead. Clergy will find real-life examples of how more effective leadership enhances the life of the community and promotes the deepening of members' faith.