Purpose

Transition Ministry offers a guide to individuals, congregations, and institutions through times of discernment and calling, especially as it relates to congregations. In the Episcopal Diocese of Fond du Lac, the process is overseen by the Transitional Ministry Officer (TMO), the Rev. Meredyth Albright, who is experienced and trained in transition and interim ministry. Mthr. Meredyth works with the Diocesan Office and others to provide the resources and support to those congregations who are in times of transition. Questions about the transition process should be directed to the Transition Ministry Officer.

Office of Transitional Ministry
​The Episcopal Church's Office of Transition Ministry's Portfolio database captures and highlights gifts and skills of clergy and laity as well as calls to ministry.​ If you have not used the Ministry Portfolio before, instruction is provided for first-time users.

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Current

St. Thomas, Neenah-Menasha

Transition Process

Each transition is unique, but there are common variables. A general outline is below. A specific plan for each call is developed with the congregational leadership and the Transition Ministry Officer.

Transition 1: Separation and Planning

• Cleric determines leave taking, consults with Bishop
• Announcement to vestry, congregation and diocese
• Process planning with Transition Ministry Officer (TMO)
• Form Transition Team (departing cleric, interim cleric, arriving cleric)

Transition 2: Self-Study

• Appointment of interim cleric
• Form Search Team
• Congregation conducts self-study

Transition 3: Discernment

• Clergy search
• Discernment of matches, interviews (may be by phone, virtual and/or in-person)
• Report candidates to Vestry, on-site visits of cleric with leadership

Transition 4: Call to New Ministry

• Determination of call, issuing the call, finalizing Covenant
• Announcing the call
• Preparing for arrival

Transition 5: Arrival

• First Sunday
• Orientation with Congregation and Diocesan Office
• Celebration of New Ministry scheduled