Interim Ministry or Provision for Ministry During Vacancy

Key leaders of the congregation including the president of the council, the executive council, and possibly staff who stay on during the transition remain in touch with the Synod Minister for Community and Leader Engagement regarding options during the interim period.  

A question to ask, "can we function effectively during the interim period with a combination of pulpit supply, existing or temporary staff, and lay leadership?" (1099s need to be issued to anyone with a paid year's total over $2000)

Is there someone in the congregation who has gifts for ministry who may be able to serve as a Synod Authorized Minister (SAM)?

Is there a need for a full or part-time contracted interim minister? 

Note: The availability of interim ministers cannot be guaranteed. The synod will work with you to find an interim from among the ministers available for this type of work.  There are two types of interims that need two different forms:

• Interim Contract - This form should be used when the goal of the congregation is to find a new leader, will put together a call committee, etc. 
• Pastoral Service Agreement-This form should be used when the rostered minister signing this agreement is fulfilling the pastoral needs of this congregation for the foreseeable future and no call committee is being formed.  

If an interim minister is contracted, plan for an appropriate celebration/recognition of their beginning. Issues that were named during the exit interview or during the departure of the former rostered minister are addressed during the interim period.   

NOTE: The interim period may run throughout steps 4-9 or some fraction thereof, depending on interim availability, the congregation's needs, etc. 

Arrangements for a vice pastor would entail using a called pastor in a nearby congregation/parish whose task is to help meet the pastoral needs of the congregation/parish in the interim. The vice-pastor would help with funerals, confirmation, annual meetings, council meetings, and even some call-process work. This vice-pastor, and vice-congregation/parish, would come alongside the congregation/parish in the interim.  

All above options for interim ministry may require a 604.20 background check which is initiated by the congregation.