Help! It Still Hurts

In this study, Hinson Graham examines how a congregation deals with the loss of its long-time pastor, as well as how the exiting pastor should prepare for his or her departure. The focus is on five independent African American churches, the black church traditionally led by a single senior pastor and known for community service as well as Christian spiritual leadership. The author explores the answers to four core questions: What were the spiritual and emotional responses to the transition of a long-term pastor? How were congregants able to express these feelings? What mindsets were most common when faced with the transition? And what, if any, processes were followed to ease the transition for the church body? Possible causes for and ramifications of a pastor’s departure are explained. The emotional and spiritual well-being of church members during the transition, however, is of primary concern here. In a clear and approachable voice, Hinson Graham cites extensive biblical precedents for managing such matters.