I am now officially and certifiably an “old codger.” I turned 65 at the end of October. I don’t feel 65. I don’t think 65 (whatever that may be). Many of you are kind enough to say I don’t look 65. Nevertheless, I am 65 – and I like being 65.
After some thirty-five plus years in ordained ministry, Leah and I begin a new chapter in our lives on April Fools Day 2008 as I retire. We shall miss Community Presbyterian Church and all that being a pastor and wife means. We may have something of an identity crisis – we shall no longer have an automatic identity in the community, so we will be establishing a new one, and in a new place – Some time in April of next year we will move to Amelia Island north of Jacksonville where our sons live.
The church will be going through change as well
Unlike many congregations, Community has only had three installed pastors in its sixty-three year history. Arland Briggs was here nearly three decades, and I’ve been here just over two. It’s never easy changing pastors, but after a long term pastorate, it’s even more difficult.
The congregation may feel a sense of loss and a lack of clear direction. Greater leadership responsibilities fall on the session and other leaders in the church. Often, new leadership emerges after the pastor’s departure. Sometimes, people adopt a “wait and see” attitude – participation and finances may decrease until a new pastor is called.
All of this (and more) is “normal”
None of it is fatal!
The Committee on Ministry of our Presbytery of Tropical Florida will meet with the session in January to discuss all of the options open to the church, and what to expect in the interim period between pastors. Most likely the session will call an interim pastor who will prepare the congregation for its future with a new pastor. This interim period usually lasts eighteen to twenty-four months. (Don Lagle, the interim pastor before I came was here seventeen and a half months. I am eternally grateful for the excellent job he did preparing for the way for my pastorate.)
During the interim, the congregation elects a pastoral nominating committee who begin their work with a careful mission study of the church and its ministry. They will write a Church Information Form to be circulated to potential candidates. After lengthy interviews and discussion, the committee will present a candidate to the congregation. You will hear that person preach and vote on whether to issue a call to that person as your new pastor.
This is a well thought through process, and far more often than not, it results in a good match between congregation and pastor.