A Conversation About Pastoral Transition

Life is full of transitions, and ministry is no exception. In a sense, every minister is an “interim” minister because we are all just passing through! Like a relay race, God’s men in every generation are called on to faithfully carry the baton and pass it on to those coming behind them. In the pastor’s role, it is not a baton that he passes, but a shepherd’s staff.

I had the privilege to preach in a wonderful church in Florida as they began a new season of ministry in a brand new facility. The pastor was leading, the people were following, and the church was moving forward. On that particular Sunday, the former, long-time pastor was in attendance. They honored him for the work he had done for decades that made their present situation possible. When he spoke, he said something that I will never forget: “Shepherds don’t just leave sheep. The shepherd’s heart is to leave them with someone who loves them as he does – someone who will lead and feed them when he is gone.” I looked at those two men and knew that was the secret to the continuity of leadership in that church, and it showed in the health of the whole.

Every situation is unique. Not every pastor gets to prepare his successor. Not every congregation will walk through seamless pastoral transitions. But it is inevitable that there will be a transition of leadership at some point, and it is a beautiful thing when it is done in a way that is healthy for the flock and glorifying to the Lord.

Over the last decade of travel, I have been in hundreds of churches. Many of them have been churches in some stage of transition. The “in between” times are dangerous and seasons where Spirit-filled vigilance is vital. The Devil loves to sneak in during such times. But I have seen humble men who followed divine leading and navigated their congregations through times of great change.

We are facing a tidal wave of empty pulpits in the coming years as a generation of faithful pastors finishes their course. Who will take their place? This is a call to action to both the older and the younger generations. The Pauls must continue to train and mentor Timothy and Titus. Young men must continue to answer the call and take their place in the greatest work in the world.

Someone asked me recently what seemed to be the common denominator in the smooth pastoral transitions I had seen. My answer is simple: two dead men. Two men, dead to self and wanting only what will build God’s kingdom and accomplish His will. Living churches are always led by dead men.

I am grateful to have had a front row seat for such a transition in our sending church. My dad pastored the Cranberry Baptist Church in Beckley for 33 years and 3 months. Almost three years ago, he retired from the pastorate and passed the shepherd’s staff to Pastor Kevin Cormican. The process was blessed by God at every step, and the health and growth of the church is a testament to God’s favor. As a church member, I can tell you that it is a wonderful thing when God’s peace rules in a church.

PREACHERS: Visit Our Preachers Page for Ministry Resources 

Preachers