Introduction to the Art and Practice of Intentional Interim Ministry
Dear Friends,
In this current season within the Michigan Conference, we are finding an increasing number of churches and appointments either in need of short-term interim pastoral help or having to deal with complicated dynamics due to disaffiliation. In light of these needs, the Michigan Conference is partnering with the United Methodist Transitional Intentional Interim Ministry Specialist Association (TIIMSA) to host a workshop titled, “Introduction to the Art and Practice of Intentional Interim Ministry.”
This workshop is a two-day, 16 hour accelerated training program with a two-hour follow up check-in on Zoom, designed to give clergy the basic concepts and skills that will help them go into situations where there is a transition in process.
September 14 10:00am – 6:00pm
September 15 8:30am – 4:30pm
Westwood UMC
538 Nichols Road, Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Rev. Dianne Christopher, Trainer
The $25 registration fee helps cover materials, meals, and snacks. The speaker fee is being covered by The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan. You will be responsible for your lodging if you need to stay overnight. We have secured a special rate of $119 + tax at the Holiday Inn & Suites Kalamazoo West, 1247 Westgate Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, (269) 888-4800. Ask for UMETH or event number 3298 for the special rate. The hotel registration cut-off date is August 30.
While we are not asking you to make a specific commitment to interim work at this time, we are asking you to come and explore this possibility. Our hope is that through this training we will have a group of clergy both prepared to help us with complicated ministry situations and willing to be available as needs arise.
For those interested in a more in-depth 85-hour Intentional Interim training, go to the TIIMSA website to see information and upcoming training dates.
If you are interested in this training and willing to explore the possibility of participating in intentional interim ministry, please register here by September 8. For more information or questions, please contact Rev. Dirk Elliott at [email protected].
We look forward to hearing from you.
Bishop David Bard Rev. Dirk Elliott
Bishop of the Michigan Conference Director of Congregational Vibrancy and Leadership Development