Proposal Summary
Revitalizing Congregations: Models of Transformational Change Through Pastoral Transitions
William Avery
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg
Summary
The dynamic that occurs in congregations with a change of pastors has long been seen as a crucial moment in a congregation’s life. It is a “kairos” moment when congregations may be more open to change than during a settled pastorate. This project will address new mission directions that are begun during, or after pastoral vacancies. It will examine the leadership roles of intentional interim pastors, judicatory officials, newly called pastors, and lay leaders in the congregations. Thus, the focus will be on leadership -- leadership that enables congregations to grow and set new directions in the midst of pastoral change. The heart of the proposed book will be portraits of six congregations from different denominations, regions of the country, settings, sizes, and ethnic and racial makeup who have in common that transformation and new directions for ministry are taking place through an intentional interim minister and the subsequent settled pastorate. Each congregation to be studied had been in severe conflict and decline at the time of the pastoral transition. I have exercised great care in the choosing of these congregations to ensure that each location will have a worthwhile and illustrative story to tell.
Report
No report available for this grant.
Related Publications
| Publishers | Title | Year | Type | Contributor | Contribution | Other Info |
| Alban Institute | Revitalizing Congregations: Refocusing and Healing Through Transitions | 2002 | Book | William Avery | Author | |