Introduction to In the Interim

Dear Friends,

It’s been my practice in parishes where I’ve served as an interim to write a “Dear Friends” letter for issues of the weekly e-newsletter. So, this is the first of many from me. From time to time, others on the staff or vestry may occupy this space instead of me.

The purpose of a “Dear Friends” letter is for there to be a personal connection with members and friends of the parish through the widest communication platform available, this weekly newsletter. I welcome your feedback about this, and anything else that might be on your mind, always!

As an intentional interim priest, I’m a specialist. My work is to help congregations prepare to welcome their next rector. This is the sixth parish I’ve served as interim since 2017. Here’s the good news: each of the parishes has successfully made it through their transition and made great calls of a person to be their next rector!

What do I do? I do all the things a “settled” rector does: lead worship, provide pastoral care, support and supervise the staff, and work with the Vestry in leading the parish. In addition to the work that’s the same as a rector, I also collaborate with the parish leadership to help strengthen a congregation during the time of transition.

The last thing a parish as vital and active as St. Paul’s needs is a placeholder. Since each parish is unique, my first step is to get acquainted with you as quickly as I can and begin to understand and assess how this amazing parish functions.

My tool kit includes a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree specializing in congregational development, and further specialized training in interim ministry through the Interim Ministry Network. You’ll find more biographical information about me in the February Parish Notes.

What don’t I do? I don’t work directly with the Search Committee. That committee has chosen an excellent consultant, Anne Schmidt, to assist them. Bishop Anne and her staff are also involved in supporting the Search Committee in their work. I will be praying for the Search Committee, and I hope you have already been praying for them.

I’m delighted to be here at St. Paul’s, and I look forward to getting to know you in the weeks and months ahead.

Blessings,

Stephen Applegate