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Editor’s note: This column was written by a member of the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention’s Shepherds Collective. For more information, visit sbtexas.com/networks/shepherds-collective.
In late 2024, I stepped in as senior pastor elect of my church, beginning an 11-month transition after a pastor who had served faithfully for nearly 30 years.
If you’ve heard stories of pastoral transitions, you know they can be difficult. But by God’s grace—and thanks to a thoughtful plan put in place by the previous pastor, David Lindow—my experience was overwhelmingly positive. It was good for me and my family, good for the church, and even good for the outgoing pastor.
Pastoral transitions come in all shapes and sizes, and no two are exactly alike. Still, I hope the following reflections from my experience can encourage pastors and churches preparing for a similar season.
Make sure the plan is clear
If you’re stepping into a role like this, be sure you understand the plan. If it’s vague, ask for clarity. Know who makes the decisions, when authority will officially be transferred, and what your job description is during the overlap. Clarity prevents confusion and protects relationships.
Spend lots of time with the outgoing pastor
Not everyone can do this, but if you’re able, make it a priority. I learned so much from our outgoing pastor—not only about the history of the church, but about ministry itself. Even after a decade of pastoring, those conversations were invaluable. I still meet regularly with Pastor David.
This time together also helps prevent unspoken frustrations or misunderstandings. Healthy communication builds trust on both sides.
Lead with humility and patience
This applies equally to the incoming and outgoing pastor. The biggest blessing in our transition was the humility and graciousness of the outgoing pastor. From Day 1, I was welcomed into leadership conversations and treated with respect, even though I was still new.
But I also had to be patient. I had plenty of ideas and hopes for the future, but a transition—especially a long one—takes time. I set a years-long timeline for changes, not a months-long one.
Honor the outgoing pastor
Pastor David and I get along very well, which helped immensely. But even in joking, I tried never to dishonor him, even unintentionally. Keep disagreements (even small ones) private and respectful. Be present for every celebration of the outgoing pastor’s ministry. Honoring faithful service is good for those being recognized, good for the church, and good for your own heart.
Love God’s people
This one feels obvious, but it’s essential. Get to know your people. Love them, preach the gospel clearly, and shepherd them well. Attend meetings—even just to learn—and see the church through others’ eyes.
I loved having 11 months before officially becoming senior pastor. It allowed me to meet deacons, leaders, staff, and members, and it gave the church time to get comfortable with me. Relationships take time, but people can sense genuine love very quickly.
Be yourself
When I went in view of a call, I told the church I could never replace Pastor David—I’m not him. But I promised to serve faithfully as the man God made me to be. If you’re not secure in your identity as a child of God, transitions like this may feel especially heavy. So keep walking closely with the Lord. It matters more than you think.
At the end of the day, a pastoral transition isn’t ultimately about the outgoing or incoming pastor. It’s about serving Christ’s church well. When we lay aside our egos and trust the Lord, transitions like this can not only work—they can become a beautiful testimony to God’s faithfulness in His church.
