GETTING STARTED RIGHT
OK, you have completed the process of identifying a new pastor for the congregation, making the offer and having it accepted, and s/he is coming to be the new pastor of the congregation. Now, how do you help make the beginning a good one and establish from the start a culture of mutual caring?
First, does the family need to look for housing either for purchase or to rent? Help them identify a knowledgeable realtor. (A word of caution; it would be best if the realtor was not a member of the congregation in case the house shopping is not an easy task.)
Second, ask the pastor and family to identify some of the community locations in which they are interested. Offer them a good map already marked with significant institutions like hospitals, groceries, shopping sights, banks, drug stores, etc. Also, they may need suggestions with respect to identifying medical professionals for their family.
Third, there will there be times in the early weeks when it would be good to have some childcare provided so that the couple can do some of the initial exploration of the community. It will be good to identify some appropriate baby sitters that they can use in the beginning. Also, it may be helpful to connect them with a family with children of similar ages to those of the pastor’s family.
Fourth, do they need help in making contacts with the local schools, recreational centers, etc.?
Fifth, consider identifying someone who can be effective in providing a good tour of the larger community. Actually two types of tours are important along with a marked map. One is to help the family become oriented to the major parts of the community. The second is for the pastor to become familiar with the social service agencies, significant churches, hospitals, etc. that will be important for his or her ministry. In addition, introduce them to people that can provide insight regarding significant issues and concerns in the community. All communities have particular experiences in their history that affect their attitudes towards the larger society.
In all cases, before plans become too firm, ask the pastor and family what would be most helpful.
