THE TRANSITIONAL PROCESS
IN THE DIOCESE OF NIAGARA

is normally a 24 to 36 month process

PHASE ONE

• Begins when a resignation or retirement is announced
• Involves the Parochial Committee in conversation with the Bishop or Executive Archdeacon or around the terms of the transition.
• May include a presentation by a Fresh Start Team to the Parish Council, and/or general meeting of the parish, to introduce the overall process, and/or “Entrance & Exit Issues”
• Normally, it is unhelpful for the Parochial Committee, or any other body in the Parish, to begin an evaluative, reflective, data gathering, or visioning study while an outgoing rector is still in place.
• Normally lasts between 1 and 3 months.

PHASE TWO

• Begins with the arrival of the Interim Pastor
• Involves the Corporation in developing a covenant with the Interim Pastor that defines the goals and priorities of the Interim’s time.
• Involves the Parochial Committee in planning how the parish will accomplish the Five Developmental Tasks and any other expectations of the transition identified by the Bishop.
• May include presentations by the Fresh Start Team.
• When it is agreed with the Interim Pastor that the Five Developmental Tasks have been sufficiently accomplished, Transition Consultants will meet with the Parochial Committee to assist and advise them in preparing a Parish Profile, and to advise them concerning the proper conduct of interviews.
• Concludes with a mutual evaluation of the interim period, and the arrival of the new rector.
• Normally lasts between 9 and 18 months.

PHASE THREE

• Begins with the arrival of the new rector
• Involves the new Rector and designated parish leaders in the Fresh Start Program ( a series of separate and joint meetings of clergy and laity, and may include part or full day programs in the parish ).
• Normally last between 18 and 24 months.

For more information contact the
Director of Interim Ministry:
The Rev'd Canon Marni Nancekivell
at 905-527-1316 ext 390.