OK, you’ve 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, the basics. Ask the pastor and family to identify some of the new community issues that they will need help with. Depending on the size of the community some good maps already marked with significant institutions like hospitals, groceries, shopping sights, etc. would be helpful.
Second, do they need to look for housing either for purchase or rent. Having a knowledgeable Realtor. A word of caution; it might be a good idea if that person was not a member of the congregation just in case that wasn’t an easy task.
Third, they may need initial help in becoming familiar with banks, drug stores, etc.
Fourth, will there be times in the early weeks when it would be good to have some childcare lined up so the adults can do some of the initial searching. Maybe connecting them up with some children their own age would make them feel more comfortable.
Fifth, do they need help in making contacts with the local schools, recreational centers, etc.
Sixth, is there someone who would be effective in providing a good tour of the nearby 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. Are there people that would be good references when they have questions about various aspects of the community that you could introduce them to.
Let your PNC brainstorm other possibilities that would be helpful upon entering a community for the first time. In all cases, before plans are too firm, be sure to ask the pastor and family if this would be helpful.
This type of preparation will help the transition be smoother.
