Key Factors in Making a Successful Pastoral Transition

Based upon the premise that all pastoral transitions are not as easy as they may appear, each chapter examines a different aspect which would be necessary in making each transition a successful one. The final chapter offers a simple yet practical four step approach for the pastor to utilize once he is behind his new desk in his new office.

Important factors include church history, what type of leader you are, what type of people you are dealing with, what is your vision, your predecessor, what type of church is it, and properly determining the problem areas.

Three key chapters stand out in importance, in addition to the final chapter that puts it all together in a way that is easily understood and relevant to just about every type of transition. Chapter two on 'Biblical Examples' sets the Biblical basis for transitions by reviewing various transfers of leadership, each one providing a different slant and offering key insights. Chapter nine, 'Survey Says,' reports on the finding of a survey (Appendix B) that was distributed to local pastors. The results confirm the original premise that not everything goes well in transitions yet a smooth passage is possible. A relatively small chapter but big in value is chapter 10 on the importance of properly hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit. After all, what is the most important? Man's plans and ideas and programs cannot compare to the omniscience of God. By properly discerning His voice and then obediently following the directives offered a successful transition is almost guaranteed.