In late winter, after the interim ministry has settled, the governing board can turn its attention to preparing for the ministerial search for the next settled minister. Learning about the flow of the search cycle, breaking down the process into phases, and doing each element within each phase helps make the search process more manageable.

Congregational Patterns to Consider in Preparation for Search

The best matches and shared ministry between minister and congregation are when the limitations of one are balanced by the strengths of the other. Notice and discuss (among leadership) your congregation’s patterns of behavior and change to begin to develop a shared understanding of what your congregation’s needs are:

• When remembering previous searches, focus on how the congregation has grown and changed since then.
• Where are the congregation’s strengths? What parts of congregational life have a strong lay presence, and don’t need as much ministerial support?
• Reflect honestly on the challenges of the congregation, and where ministerial support is most needed.
  • Are there new ministry program opportunities to explore?
  • Are there spiritual or social justice yearnings that have not yet found an outlet?
• Are there structural changes that are needed?
  • Is your decision-making structure effective?
  • Are your congregation’s giving patterns generous?
  • Are your finances adequate to fund your vision for the future?