It is vitally important during the time of transition from the outgoing minister to the interim to the incoming minister that the need for closure by the congregation and minister be addressed. A healthy departure allows for evaluation, celebration, grief work, forgiveness, and preparation for the continuing pastoral care of the congregation, the departing minister and his/her family.
The close relationships that develop during one’s ministry with a congregation make the process of professional separation and establishing a new relationship challenging. Clergy who have practiced the pattern of giving careful pastoral attention to the well–being of the congregation sometimes makes it difficult for clergy/congregation to let go. Thus the outgoing minister does not seek to influence the search and call process, makes a clean break with the congregation, and does not attempt to continue participating in pastoral functions such as celebrating weddings and funerals, or making pastoral hospital visits and calls unless asked to do so by the current minister. For their part, the interim minister and incoming minister commit to honoring the ministries of those who previously served the congregation.
Disciples’ ethical guideline is for the outgoing minister to separate from the congregation for a period of at least one year after the arrival of the new minister.
