Intentional interim ministers recognize two major dynamics at play during leadership transitions. What is the interim minister’s role and work and what is the congregation’s role and work during this time – and how do they engage in that work?

The congregation dynamic creates the biggest challenge. Anxious. Not knowing how to move forward. Looking to the interim for direction. The challenge is to not let the congregation become dependent upon the interim to do their work for them.

Many interims have found the use of a Transition Team to be a key component of this time and process. Some interims consider it to be the single most important element as they work to fulfill their role as “pastor to the people and consultant to the Transition Team”. The interim is there to coach the Team and promote the congregation’s work.