The Unintentional Interim: Ministry in Times of Transition

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In the rapidly changing modern church, every minister is an interim. 

Few pastors begin their ministry in a congregation believing it will be a short-term or transitional partnership. Yet in a rapidly changing church environment, every minister is an unintentional interim.

From author and judicatory leader for ministerial transitions, Jeffrey A. Nelson, comes a thoughtful engagement on modern ministry in the modern church. With discernment and support, ministers can be intentional throughout their pastorate—no matter how long or short their tenure may last.

Praise for The Unintentional Interim

“The church is a bride that bites (Galatians 5:15). Jeffrey Nelson knows this truth as he revisits the hostility, anxiety, and grief often defining the pastoral experience. The Unintentional Interim anticipates transitions that do not derail. Rediscover hope, grace, and trust in ministry.” — The Rev. Dr. Jaco J. Hamman, Professor of Religion, Psychology, and Culture, Vanderbilt Divinity School

“The church is in a constant season of change. By sharing his own experience of changing ministry settings, Rev. Nelson introduces us to the value of interim ministry, a role pastors of any tenure might need to embrace.” — The Rev. Melody L. Seaton, Founding Pastor of Grace UCC (Sauk Village, IL), Project Director, Thriving Pastors in Revitalizing Congregations (IL Conference UCC)

“Jeffrey Nelson successfully argues that in these times of change and uncertainty – whether they want it or not – all clergy leaders are called to help lead their faith communities through transition. With a deep awareness of the current context and through personal witness, he invites us to embrace this challenging moment with faithful disillusionment and close attention to the process of transition. Through examination of his own journey, he helps us face the unwelcome realities the demands of transitional times place on us as leaders, while offering helpful perspectives and tools for sustaining us in this vital work.” – The Rev. Dr. Jonathan New, Executive Director, Interim Ministry Network