Forming an Agreement with the Interim Minister
An agreement between congregation and interim minister is an important way to state expectations and clarify the context of ministry in your church during the transition. It is important to state expectations of both the interim minister and the congregation. You may want to consider inserting some of these statements in the agreement.
Expectations of the Interim Minister:
- I will fulfill the normal functions of the pastor.
- I will work 4 1/2 days a week, taking vacation days each quarter.
- I will lead the congregation in working on the developmental tasks.
- I will strengthen the church's denominational ties.
- I will not become a candidate for the installed pastorate of this church.
- I will not participate in any aspect of the church's search regarding any persons being considered, interviewed or called as a candidate for the installed pastorate of this church.
Expectation of the Congregation:
- We will support and cooperate with the Interim Minister.
- We will work on the Five Developmental Tasks during the interim.
- We will continue financial support for the church and its mission.
- We will assist the pastor in the church's ministry with the community.
- We will sustain lay leadership and shared ministry.
- We will participate in association and regional programs and events of the denomination.
- We will keep the interim pastor informed of the timing of transition events like candidate visits and date of termination.