“As much as we don’t like to think about it, every congregation will face transition,” said Jill Meuser, member of the Transitional Ministry Development Team. The team was created to strengthen and professionalize the practice of transitional ministry in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod.
Pointing out that the team is comprised of a diverse group of both lay and clergy, she said that they find unity in the commitment to see that all people serving in transition are fully equipped for this ministry.
“As part of that endeavor, we will encourage interim pastors to be trained to use the new Mission Insite in order to enable the congregations they serve to productively use and understand the data that’s available,” said Pastor Ellen Meissgeier.
The team is also identifying best practices in transitional ministry and has a five year vision that includes offering the skills of transitional specialists to congregations seeking growth and mission and visioning processes.