Calling a new pastor

In about one month, Pastor Pam Schroeder will begin retirement. As the day draws ever closer, some of us are, well, freaking out a little. First, there is the realization that a colleague, friend, and spiritual leader who has been integral to our lives will no longer be around. A kind of anticipatory grief is dawning on us. Second, we are beginning to ask with greater urgency, “What do we do now?” That leads to questions about whether we have a replacement lined up, what is happening with a call process, and who will do what Pastor Pam has done. 
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The first thing to know is that before we welcome anyone else, we will need to bid a proper farewell to Pastor Pam. Information has been sent to you all about our plans. Just a reminder – On Sunday, April 10 (The Passion of Our Lord) we will formally bless her and give thanks for her in worship. This will be followed by a brunch after the 10:00 AM service. Plan to attend! If you have cards or notes, you can send them now or place them in a basket on that Sunday. 

Second, we will not be doing much to find a new pastor until after Pastor Pam leaves. Unlike more “corporate” models, we will let her chair get cold before we begin, in partnership with the Synod, a Call Process. That is not to say that nothing is being done. This month the Council will be reviewing and revising the Position Description for the Pastor for Care & Community. The Council will be initiating discussion of what we need in this place and time. They will also begin updating the profile information about our congregation that will be used by the synod during a Call Process.  

We will be forming a Call Committee which will be recommended by the Council and elected by the congregation. If you are interested in serving in this capacity, contact me – tolson@holytrinityankeny.org  

Thirdly, we are preparing for an interim period that will shift responsibilities, look for interim pastoral help, mobilize members so that we can carry out the ministry of the congregation faithfully, trusting that the Spirit is working, and God will guide us.  

We ask for your prayers. We ask for your partnership. We ask for your patience.  
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Pax Christi,  
Tim Olson – Lead Pastor ​