Deciding when it is time to transition away from a ministry takes a lot of discernment, both for a minister’s own situation and for the impact on the congregation (or other institution) they serve. It is a time for ministers to reach out to trusted colleagues, family, and friends as thought partners.
Some questions for discernment include:
What Color is Your Ministry Traffic Light?
This guide can help you (as a minister or other religious professional) determine if your ministry is vital, needing attention, or needing intervention.
- Do I feel that the ministry is worthwhile and vibrant? If not, do I have the energy that it would take for renewal and engagement?
- Do I continue to care for the well being of the congregation and am I still willing to tend to its thriving?
- Is there mutual respect, care, and trust between myself and the church leadership? Or am I feeling marginalized or diminished?
- Does the governing board hear and consider my concerns? Do I take their concerns seriously?
- Can I still be the minister to congregants with whom I disagree?
- Can I still take care of myself and fill the role of my ministry (with boundaries)? Or does the congregation feel I am absent or that they need to take care of me?
The tradition of calling a minister and entrusting them with spiritual leadership means it is also minister’s role to realize that it is time to conclude the ministry when it is no longer serving the congregation, its mission, or minister. A timely end to the ministry creates the opportunity to express mutual gratitude for the ministry, and a feeling that the ministry served the congregation and minister well.
Clergy who avoid an end when an end is due leads to clergy burnout and congregational tension. This can lay the groundwork for serious conflict, and even misconduct.
Once you have decided to make a transition, reach out to the UUA Transitions Team and Congregational Life staff so they can be thought partners as you plan a good ending to your ministry.
Searching for a UU Parish Ministry Position
Process for Ministers in Search
The UUA’s ministry search process is open to UU ministers in Fellowship. Here you’ll find advice that can help you navigate the search process.
Retirement: The Final Season of Ministry
Retiring from the UU Ministry
Retirement means different things to different people. For some ministers, retirement means ceasing from remunerative work in one’s later years, and beginning to draw upon Social Security benefits, retirement plan assets, and other savings. For others, retirement means departing a particular…
Boundaries for Departing Ministers
Expectations and Boundaries for Departing Ministers
Leaving well is a time for reflecting on the ministry’s accomplishments and lessons, and reassuring the congregation as they will move to a new future.
Process after a Negotiated or Troubled Ending
Ministerial Review, Hold, and Settlement Restrictions
A difficult parting from any type of ministry puts a minister on a temporary hold from ministry search. Here is an overview of the process.
To participate in the Service of the Living Tradition, ministers must complete and submit the Intent to Retire form. For more information about retirement, visit the retirement page on the UUA website.