Interim pastors play a vital role in the ministry of congregations, providing congregational care and missional guidance in times of transition. The Minneapolis Area Synod has an excellent community of pastors specifically prepared to work in congregations during times of transition. The interim pastors serving in our Synod are gifted and enthusiastic about their work and committed to continuously improving their skills. Many have had years of experience in this ministry and meet each month for prayer, education, and support. To see a list of congregations currently in interim, check out our Comings and Goings page.

As soon as a congregation knows it will need an interim pastor, the council president should contact Karen Alexander at the Synod office and look at the Seven Checklists for Congregations in Transition Handbook. After conversation and discernment, the synod office will suggest names (usually two or three) of interim pastors it believes could serve the congregation well. Once the council decides to call an interim pastor, the council and the interim pastor should work together to complete the Interim Agreement form and return it to the Synod office.

Interim pastors follow these Eight Foundations of Interim Ministry:

  • To maintain the viability of the congregation

  • To bring closure to the previous pastor’s ministry

  • To reinforce the ministry of the laity

  • To clarify the mission of the congregation

  • To address specific and special needs of the congregation

  • To provide for a congregation self-study and development of a vision and mission plan

  • To strengthen denominational ties

  • To prepare the congregation for their next leader

Reach Out

If your ministry needs an interim pastor, contact Karen Alexander. If you are interested in becoming an interim pastor in the Minneapolis Area Synod, contact Pastor John Hulden.

Karen Alexander

Administrator for Roster and Call Process

John Hulden

Assistant to the Bishop for Leadership