Transitional Ministry

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transitional ministry PCUSA

The Transitional Ministry classes are for pastors and religious leaders serving in a ministerial context characterized by transition in leadership, culture, context, and ministry who wish to broaden their understanding and skills for leading in the midst of change. Participants will use their current ministry settings for reflection as they hone skills to read, analyze, and engage systems in which they minister.

About the Transitional Ministry Program

The Transitional Ministry Basic Education program is designed to the meet the guidelines of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). This program includes weekly contact hours via Zoom, weekly preparation time, and at least one additional Zoom session to be scheduled for small group work. We expect participants to:

  • attend all scheduled sessions,
  • complete the assigned work in preparation for the class, and
  • finish work assigned during the seven weeks.

Please note that you will not be able to carry on a normal work schedule on Thursdays during the seven weeks of the course. Arrangements should be made in advance for coverage of pastoral responsibilities. Attendance for all contact hours is necessary to receive a certificate of completion.

Transitional Ministry Part 1

Part 1 is designed for persons curious about reflecting on practice, those engaged in transitional / interim ministry, clergy who are considering ministry in transitional settings, and members of Presbytery staffs, Committees on Ministry, and comparable representatives from denominations beyond the PC(USA). We believe ministry in transition should be intentional as well as improvisational and nimble. Experiencing this course will give you a helpful scaffolding for serving congregations in transition and will hone your skills in thinking about ministry in change. 

Learn more about the upcoming Transitional Ministry Part 1 class.

Transitional Ministry Part 2

This is an intense, multiple week course with the majority of time spent in small group process, intermixed with presentations by Transitional Ministry Education Consortium and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary faculty. Completion of the Transitional Ministry Week 1 course (more than six months ago and within the past five years) and current service in a transitional setting are requirements for participation. 

Learn more about the upcoming Transitional Minsitry Part 2 class.