Call Process Booklet

Ending Well
God’s
work.
Our
hands.
I thank my God every time I remember
you, constantly praying with joy in
every one of my prayers for all of you,
because of your sharing in the gospel
from the first day until now. I am
confident of this, that the one who
began a good work among you will
bring it to completion by the day of
Jesus Christ. Philippians 1.3–6
Thanksgiving and Praise
A pastoral transition can be a difficult and emotional time. For many, a pastor leaving
means uncertainty and sadness. For a few, it may be the day they have been waiting
for. For others, it can feel like a death. No matter what the relationship has been—
positive, negative or lukewarm—the final weeks of a pastorate are very important to a
healthy transition.
These weeks will be filled with detail work. The pastor will be making sure that records
are up to date and visiting as many members as possible—in addition to packing up a
household. The Congregation Council will be meeting several times to ensure a smooth
transition into the interim period. If there are other staff members they will most likely be
taking on additional responsibilities. It may feel overwhelming at times.
Through all of this essential work it will be important to remember to celebrate. In all but
the most difficult situations, pastor and congregation will have many things to reflect on
and celebrate. Remember to thank and praise God for all the good that has happened
during the pastorate. Think about appropriate ways to thank a pastor. Never forget that
the focus of the church is always on God and yet God uses people to further the
kingdom. This time will be an opportunity to do something that the church ought to do
more often: celebrate with great Joy!
Walking together † for the sake of mission † in God’s world
944 24 ¼ Street • PO Box 107 • Chetek, WI 54728 • 715-859-6810 • Fax 715-859-6812 • www.nwswi.org
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