Pastoral Transitions & Succession provides guidance for churches and leaders navigating seasons of change. Explore biblically grounded resources on preparing for pastoral transitions, developing succession plans, and leading congregations with clarity, care, and unity. You’ll find practical help for search processes, interim seasons, staff and elder alignment, communication with the church, and supporting incoming and outgoing leaders. Whether you’re planning ahead, experiencing an unexpected transition, or helping a new pastor settle in, these articles aim to promote healthy leadership handoffs and long-term congregational stability.
A reflection on why ministerial transitions can feel like calling to ministers but loss to church members—and how taking the long view helps congregations and pastors navigate resignations with healthier perspective.
September 25, 2005
Practical counsel for congregations who want to strengthen a preacher’s ministry: set realistic expectations, listen for application, encourage with support and outreach, and pray for courage, humility, and wisdom.
As Eddie Bratton retires, Cathy Kissling remembers how Eddie and Lois Bratton—and a faithful church family in Kalkaska, Michigan—helped her family survive a painful season with counsel, prayer, and practical care.
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May 13, 2026
Shawn McMullen
May 12, 2026
Rick Cherok
May 12, 2026
David Faust