How the Interim Minister Set Me Up for Success with My New Congregation
15 min 06 s
Rev. Heidi Johnston
As an Interim Minister, have you ever wondered about the rest of the story? You know – feedback about the impact of your ministry on the congregation after you left? In this episode, settled ELCA pastor, Rev. Heidi Johnston, expresses her gratitude to the Intentional Interim Minister who preceded her, including specifics of how the IM set her up for success.
Particular things IM did to set me up for success –
The IM expressed clear boundaries about the number of hours/week she would work & equipped laity to negotiate the use of pastoral time and energy – focusing and prioritizing;
IM didn’t work beyond her stated limit of working hours when temped to do so – and helped the congregation understand why and adapt;
Two, she led leadership through honest sometimes hard conversations about their current reality – and its implications for calling next pastor;
IM presented new limitations as opportunities, not losses, which led to a new joy in opportunities for more hands-on ministry for lay people.
Three – The transition conversations nudged people beyond all the ways the past was more abundant – celebrate the wonderful things of the past, and also name past hurts and conflicts – helped me not to get blindsided by issues the congregation may be sweeping under the rug.
The Rev. Heidi Johnston is a Lutheran pastor currently serving St. Luke Lutheran Church in Gales Ferry, CT. With nearly 12 years of ordained ministry under her belt, Heidi firmly believes in participating in ministry beyond the congregational walls. She lives into this by encouraging her congregation to serve and partner with other congregations and local organizations. Since actions speak louder than words, Pr. Heidi models this by serving as a co-Dean of her region’s ELCA congregations, works with the ELCA’s New England Synod Worship Team, and is collaborating with Southeastern CT interfaith clergy to form a faith-based organizing network for greater societal change.
Heidi is the daughter of a retired Army Chaplain and a mental health counselor – an upbringing she credits with helping her sink down roots, make meaningful connections, and be bold in having forthright, honest conversations. With a BFA in Musical Theater from Syracuse University, Heidi enjoys occasionally employing jazz hands during a hymn, and playing such renowned roles as Sheep #3 and The Little Drummer Boy in Christmas pageants. Heidi is passionate about her role as mother and wife, and ascribes to a compassionate vegan lifestyle. She encourages all working clergy to follow the Spirit’s lead to care for ourselves with rest, good foods, precious personal time with family and friends, and maybe some walks through the woods (or back and forth to the copier if it’s a very busy day).
- Recorded in September of 2023
- Listen to more from Rev. Heidi Johnston
