By Art McNeese, D. Min
Churches often experience trauma when going through the process of succession. The previous preacher resigns or retires. The church then experiences the disequilibrium of finding a new minister. This normally creates ‘anxiety’ within the church system. After all, even in the event of needed change or positive change, the transition from the old ways to the new ways may feel disruptive.
But there are examples of healthy transition. Let me give an example. In 2020, I retired after planting a church in North Texas in 2006. I enjoyed a good relationship with the church and with the elders, but the time had come for fresh leadership and vision-casting. We appointed a search committee and began the process. In 2018, God led us to a young man who met the criteria we had prayed about, and he was hired. I stepped aside as the minister, but my family and I have continued to worship with the church.
Some would argue that my decision to stay as a member of the church was unwise. That it created too much of a “shadow” for my young successor. There are unquestionably situations where it’s advisable for the previous minister to move on. Wise elders will know when this is the case. But in our case, the transition has been seamless and successful. Members of our congregation sometimes ask me, “How has the church managed to navigate this change so well?” I believe there are several reasons for the healthy passing of the baton.
First, I’m convinced that our vision as a church had been carefully developed and articulated. A clear and compelling biblical vision supersedes many of the things that sometimes get in the way of being a healthy, living organism. The members of the church understood that the body of believers is not about any figure or personality or spokesman. The vision transcended outward expressions of the church. None of the ‘appendages’ got in the way. The work of the church had to be carried out, no matter who was preaching and teaching.
Second, the church prayed intensely for God’s direction in the process. Only the Holy Spirit could orchestrate the passage from the existing preacher to the new one in a way that was welcomed by almost everyone.
Third, my successor and I made it clear from the beginning that we were “for” each other in every respect. I am my successor’s biggest cheerleader. No one wants him to be used by God in powerful ways more than I do. After all, my heart’s desire, and his, is for the kingdom of God to expand and for our community to be permeated with the knowledge of Christ. My successor was not an intrusion but a welcome addition to God’s work in and through the church. The reality is that he has proven to be gifted in ways that I am not. He is better suited to assist the church through difficult times, such as COVID, than I am. His expertise in technology has proven to be a valuable asset to the ministry of the church. God appointed him to be my successor, much as God appointed Joshua, to follow Moses. This sense of divine appointment has immensely enhanced the handoff.
Finally, our elders have maintained a “non-anxious” presence throughout this experience. The few members who may have been unsettled by the change are heard and loved and prayed with, but never appeased or mollified. Our leaders have held unswervingly to our vision. They do not allow detractors to push their buttons or create unrest. Instead, they summon the church to remain faithful to the unity and integrity and mission to which God calls us.
Transitions are tricky but do not have to compromise the functioning of the body. In fact, when guided by the Spirit, transitions can help the church accomplish its work more effectively than ever before!
Contact Art: amcneese@aol.com
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