Are you looking for a new adventure in ministry?
Our Interim Ministry Basics course is being offered twice in 2026!
We’ve trained over 200 students in the last few years. Their response to the class has been great!
We’re offering a new, revised curriculum with updated resources. This new offering is interactive and collegial and practical.
Here is the course syllabus for our next offering (Spring, 2026).
Topics to be covered include –
- What is interim ministry? And how is it different from settled ministry?
- What gifts and skills are needed for interim ministry? What tools are needed?
- What are the issues congregations need to talk about during the interim time?
- What insights from Family Systems Theory can enhance our ministry together?
- What is the role of the Transition Team?
- How do we lead a meaningful experience in spiritual discernment/visioning?
- How do we handle issues of change? And of conflict?
- How do we “take these lessons home with us?” Practical application
The course will be offered in 8 sessions on Mondays from September 14 through November 2, 7:00 – 9:00 pm Eastern Time. There will be an orientation session offered on September 13.
Who should take the training?
Ministers in any age and stage of their career, pulpit supply ministers, retired ministers who want to return to ministry, therapists/counselors/social workers who want to use their gifts and skills in a congregational setting, laity interested in becoming a commissioned minister
What is involved? Will there be homework?
The class meets on Monday nights from 7:00 – 9:00 pm Eastern Time with an optional after-session each week. There will be readings, videos and conversations each week in preparation for class sessions. There will also be a course project to help provide practical application of the concepts covered in the course.
What outcomes should I expect?
Students who complete the class will have a knowledge of interim ministry, how to have a strong start, gather a Transition Team, lead crucial conversations. Congregations led by interim ministers have the opportunity to become more healthy and more vital with a clearer vision of their next chapter together with a new settled pastor.
How much does it cost?
The 8 sessions will cost $600. Many Regional ministers are willing to share in the cost if the student offers to serve in an interim setting in the future.
Email us at Interims@dhm.disciples.org for more information and an application link.
