2023 FAQs
Provided by Narberth Presbyterian Church’s Pastoral Nominating Committee
Issued November 19, 2023
What is the difference between a Transitional Pastor and an Interim Pastor?
In the ECO denomination, a Certified Transitional Pastor is not just an interim pastor. Instead, it is someone who has been trained in helping congregations through the transition process. They will have taken courses in subjects such as transitional leadership, structural health, outreach and equipping, flourishing churches, reconciliation, and coaching. In our case, Pastor Farrar Griggs has served as a Certified Transitional Pastor at two other churches, helping shepherd them through successful transitions.
Does our Transitional Pastor, Farrar Griggs, have a contract with us for a specific length of time?
Yes, his contract is for 12 months, starting on November 13, 2023. If we find a permanent Senior Pastor before that time, we will give Farrar 60 days notice of when the permanent Senior Pastor will begin their ministry at NPC.
With a Transitional Pastor model, are you still searching for a called Senior Pastor?
Yes, the PNC is continuing to actively search for our next permanent Senior Pastor. We have hired a search firm, Shepherd Staff, to help us find a greater number of qualified candidates. We are also taking in new submissions through postings with ECO and other job sites.
Is it possible for the Transitional Pastor to become our permanent pastor? Is there such an option in the contract?
No, the role of a Transitional Pastor is a specific one. Farrar knows that he is serving as our pastor for only a limited period of time in order to prepare us for whoever will serve as our permanent Senior Pastor.
Can you give insight into why previous applicants for the permanent Senior Pastor position haven’t been the right fit?
As we vet and interview candidates, we know there is no such thing as a perfect person. But we do seek someone who will be warm and compassionate, have a deep love of Christ, and is gifted in preaching and teaching the Word. We also want someone who is aligned with our vision and direction and can serve well as the leader of our pastoral team. So although we have interviewed some wonderful people, we do not believe we have found the person whom God is calling to NPC - whose character, competence, and chemistry are the right fit for our church.
During this time with a Transitional Pastor, what will Steve & Teri Weed’s relationship with NPC look like?
Having a Certified Transitional Pastor allows us to have greater flexibility in Steve and Teri’s relationship to NPC. One of the things that the ECO denomination encourages is for friendships to continue but not the pastoral relationship.
As a result, Steve and Teri Weed are welcome to worship with us on Sunday mornings and Teri will still be able to lead the Quilting Ministry. Steve also can still be a part of his men’s small groups as a participant.
However, Steve will no longer teach or lead small groups at church or conduct church business or counsel members of the congregation.
Is there an email address where I can reach out to Farrar and introduce myself?
Yes, it is fgriggs@narberthpres.org.
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How can I contact the PNC if I have questions?
We are in the process of scheduling listening session(s) to answer questions that the congregation may have about the Transitional Pastor process and our search for a Senior Pastor. We will keep you posted on dates and times. You can also email us at any time at PNCatNPC@narberthpres.org.
