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All of the information above can easily give the impression that you cannot be trusting of pastors and other professional ministers. The opposite is actually true; however, you must see this potential relationship as similar to a courtship — the need to impress is mutual. While you should not enter an interview process with suspicion and ask too many risky questions, you must use all available options for gathering information. Perhaps you should call the previous minister of music. Consider contacting regional and state leaders for an assessment. There are many ways to gain knowledge of the pastor without appearing skeptical and untrusting.

Nothing will replace the time that you actually spend on site with the pastor. The most trusted method of determining the sincerity of another is time; nothing can replace the observation of a person over time. Unfortunately, in this situation, time is limited!

eaving Effectively

While ministers tend to put thought and energy into beginning well, they tend to give little thought to leaving effectively. Leaving well is important for the church's continued ministry, and it is often the time when memories are built for the departing minister. Leaving well should be the goal of every minister in transition.

The situations surrounding a ministry transition can be varied. On the plus side, the time can be filled with anticipation as a new ministry is envisioned; on the minus side, some transitions are made when negative events have occurred. Regardless of the circumstances, both church and minister are wise to practice good manners and make the transition graceful.

The Letter of Resignation

The letter of resignation is often the first step in the process of transition. The letter is sometimes presented to the personnel committee and subsequently printed in the church's newsletter, while in other churches it is read publicly following a time of worship. Whatever the process and whether or not the letter will receive public attention, it deserves careful thought. The resignation letter should have two overall purposes: (1) to formally announce the departure and (2) to thank the congregation for its support. The letter should contain the official date that your service will end.

While this letter is usually the beginning of an important process of reflection, in some circumstances it can be a source of great pain. Obviously, the congregation was supportive and caring at some point, and this should be recognized. Whatever the circumstances, you should be gracious in thanking the church for the opportunity to work with them. The form of the letter should be similar to the following: (1) gratitude for the opportunity to serve together and reflection on that time together, (2) statement of your new position, departing date, and other related information, and (3) assurance to the church that you feel this is a part of God's call for your life and ministry and of your desire to make a smooth and productive transition.

Time to Grieve

You must be allowed the opportunity to grieve. It is often difficult for the minister to grieve because he/she is so engrossed in the details of transition. Emotions are mixed, for you are sad to leave, excited about the future, yet anxious about the unknown. You must carefully consider all of these emotions and deal honestly with your feelings.

As the news of your leaving becomes public, you must allow the congregation members to process your leaving in their own way. Some people will eagerly embrace the new opportunity in your life, while others may display anger and lack of understanding. Realize that while you have been processing this potential move for quite some time, your decision is completely new for them. They must be given time to "catch up" in processing their grief.

Make Memories

Utilize every opportunity in these weeks to create good memories for yourself and your family. You will most likely be asked to attend dinners, parties, and other events. Try to participate in every event. Recognize that these events will require significant time, and there will be little personal time in the days before the actual transition. Anticipate this process and plan accordingly. In the lonely days that may accompany the first days and months of your new job, you will receive great strength from these days of celebration.

Prepare For Your Successor

One of the primary tasks of this period will be preparation for your successor. These are days to complete tasks already begun, not to begin new ones. The following is an example of materials, lists, and files that should be left for your successor: