Transitional Ministry Training (TMT)


2023 Dates:  
Online:  March 13 & 20, 2023 (cancelled: to be rescheduled)


Transitional ministry has a unique place in the mission of the church. While "interim pastors" have provided preaching and pastoral care between pastors for many years, "transitional ministry" involves training to lead congregations through major transitions with a process of preparation for entering a new chapter of leadership with a goal of sustained organizational health and vitality.

Background understandings 

 Assumptions:
  1. Transitional ministry is a specific field within the broad context of pastoral ministry. It requires unique gifts and qualities and specialized training.
  2. It is both possible and expedient to assess general potential for effectiveness in transitional ministry in advance of training.
  3. Transitional ministry skills and methodology will increasingly be required for 21st Century pastoral leadership in all congregations.
  4. Transitional ministry requires a blending of three resources: left brain (rational thought), right brain (creative process), and Holy Spirit empowerment.
  5. We assume candidates enter this training with adequate preparation for pastoral ministry. In general, the trainers believe that transitional ministry is not the best place for initial development of ministry gifts and pastoral identity.

 Objectives for the training: 
  1. Identify potential candidates for transitional ministry. 
  2. Prepare transitional pastors to function with competence and confidence in many transitional ministry contexts.
  3. Instill the values of continuing education, support and accountability, and leadership development which are essential for effectiveness in transitional ministry.

 Educational Philosophy:
  1. This program normally integrates classroom and experiential learning. Due to the pandemic, we are offering a fully on-line version at this time.
  2. Self-awareness is an essential component for effective transitional ministry; it is therefore an integral part of this training process.
  3. The student takes initiative in consultation with trainers to shape personal learning goals for the time after the training.

Amigo Centre

26455 Banker Road
Sturgis, Michigan 49091
269.651.2811