When the Session was initially informed of Jon’s leaving, our first conversation centered around how quickly could the Church get a permanent Pastor called. During that same time, Dr. Greg Goodwiller, Presbytery Executor helped guide us through the recommended process which includes an Interim Pastor. Thus the Interim Committee was formed. As the committee went into much deeper thought and discussion, it became much clearer to us the wisdom behind this important and necessary part of the process.
As one thinks about the purpose of an Interim, it is analogous to the purpose of winter. I am sure many of us would just assume go from fall to spring and skip winter. Yet one must look at the underlying importance of this season. In many ways winter and the Interim Pastor serves the same purpose:
· They both kill off the weeds or bad habits, which, in turn, allow the gardener or congregation to see the landscape much clearer.
· They both allow the gardener or congregation to see the real potential and create a grand vision for their future.
· They both provide the water and nutrients required for re-energizing and rebirth.
· They both bring about a hope and great expectations for the upcoming season.
As the committee has been deeply engaged in the Interim process, it is much easier for us to recognize the importance of the changing seasons. We have also realized that allowing the Interim Pastor the time required to perform these very important tasks is not only in the membership’s best interest, but short-cutting this process might be detrimental in the long run. As we enter into the phase of an Interim calling, the church must be patient and recognize its importance. The church must trust the process and its critical role in preparing us for the calling of our next permanent Pastor.
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