Pastoral Support

Typically, congregations are served by Rostered Ministers who are called to serve by a vote from the congregation. However, when a congregation enters a time of transition due to the departure of a pastor or deacon, the Office of the Bishop may appoint an Interim Minister to serve the congregation as they move through the Call Process.

The nature of Interim Ministry depends largely on the context of the congregation in transition. While some congregations desire reliable pulpit supply, visitation, and teaching from an interim, others may depend on a pastoral leader to serve as an administrative executive. Each setting is unique, and so Interim Ministers utilize a variety of gifts to serve.

    • Full-time or Part-time

    • Serve congregations locally or commute significant distances to serve

    • May serve one or more congregations, depending on regional needs

    • Can be either active or retired

    • Are compensated according to Synod Compensation Guidelines

    • May receive a Synod Call, if not retired and serve more than half-time

    • Conclude service upon the call of the next pastor

    • Cannot be considered for permanent call to the congregation they serve

    More more information about Interim Ministry and ongoing formation and training events, refer to the Interim Ministry Network and the Lutheran Transitional Ministry Association.

  • Unfortunately not. Often, there are fewer Interim Ministers than there are congregations in transition. When an Interim Minister is not available, the Office of the Bishop will work with your congregation’s leadership to create a plan for pastoral support that may involve lay leadership and pulpit supply.

  • The Office of the Bishop cannot guarantee continued employment as an interim pastor, even if significant time and resources have been invested in training. The best way to ensure ongoing service as an interim minister is to be flexible and open to the needs of congregations throughout the Synod.