LORD, HOW MANY ARE YOUR WORKS, IN THIS PLACE!

Pr. Laurie Andersen

I am in my eleventh month with you, Coastside, as your Interim Pastor! It would be good to recap my very first article from last fall, and some others, regarding the tasks and purpose of an interim minister, and a look at our time together. You have taken great strides in preparation of your new pastor! Some memories of our seasons together:

From my first article:

“What is an Interim?? Is it a bug?? On Rally Day, you had some excellent questions for me, regarding “interim ministry”. To recap, the field of “intentional interim” is a career path all its own, and has been evolving in concept over many years. An “intentional” interim is an experienced pastor (normally ordained many years) who has had additional training/certification in “Transitional” or “Interim” ministry. The training includes the psychology of change/transitions, family systems, grief and loss, conflict resolution, and church administration. As an “outsider”, the interim has fresh lenses to make observations helpful to the congregation that are not so obvious to members, and the freedom, as one un-attached to the system, to point out difficult spots or a possible need for change, should it be appropriate.

The Church has found that if a new permanent pastor were to point out the same things or implement certain changes, they may be seen as acting in their own self-interest, and resented. A temporary interim is seen as working solely in the interest of the congregation, and not for their own future or benefit. It has been observed, that congregations who have trained intentional interims for a period, are more likely to make a joyful and long-term match, for their next permanent pastor. I am sure this is what God intends for you! I hope this explanation is helpful. (If you are interested, you may find more information on ”Intentional Interim Ministry” on the website ELCA.org )

From Advent:

“A blessed Advent to all! This holiday season, I give thanks to God for you! From the beginning it has been a blessing to be in the midst of such a welcoming and motivated congregation, shaped over the years by God’s hand through those whom God sent you. In this church, it has been warming to witness hearts so highly responsive to reaching out to one another with compassion, and to the wider community, which is in greater need than recent years, in times of economic insecurity.

You have pledged to your church, in both time and resources, great support, in spite of it all and in faith. And you have poured out your hearts and support to a large group of homeless children, in addition to adopting two families in need for the holidays. “When you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me”. The homeless child in the manger, will indeed smile upon all those who have fed and cared for Him, by caring for others.

I am honored to be your temporary shepherd!”

____________________________________________________________________________

COASTLIGHT July/August 2009