Introduction to Transitional Interim Ministry (TIM)
The “Introduction to Transitional Interim Ministry” conference is designed for those who are considering TIM as a part-time ministry when they retire. Attendance at an introductory conference, commitment to this ministry, and District-sponsored continuing education are required to be recognized as a Michigan District Transitional Interim Pastor.
There is a $55 fee to attend this conference, which will include books and a manual. (Lodging will be covered by the districts.)
Trainers: Rev. Dr. Robert E. Kasper and Rev. Dr. Scott Sommerfeld
Objectives: To become knowledgeable of …
- The “Developmental Tasks” of a congregation during pastoral transition.
- The “Process Tasks” of the Transitional (Interim) Pastor.
- The theology of Interim Ministry.
- A growing awareness of congregational systems.
- Leading through “self-differentiation.”
Purpose: To provide an adequate knowledge base and practical application, so that participating pastors are enabled to discern whether this specialized ministry is for them; and be the informed foundation for serving congregations in this manner in the future.
Training Methods: A combination of video, lecture, group discussion, case studies, and some role play.
When & Where
Hillsdale
September 22 - September 24
Michindoh Conference Center4545 E. Bacon Rd.
Hillsdale, MI, 49242
Presenters
Speaker
Rev. Dr. Robert Kasper
Rev. Dr. Robert Kasper presently serves as the Director of Leadership Development for the Michigan District, LCMS. Prior to joining the Michigan District staff in 2012, Kasper served nearly 30 years as a parish pastor in suburban St. Louis, Mo. and Detroit, Mich. He serves as the Facilitator for Transitional Interim Ministry in the Michigan District. He continues to read extensively in the areas of Systems Theory, Leadership, and Adaptive Missions for the Church in the Post-modern/Post-Christian era. Kasper and his wife Debbie live in Ypsilanti, Mich. They have four grown children and ten grandchildren.
Speaker
Rev. Dr. Scott Sommerfeld
Rev. Dr. Scott Sommerfeld has a passion for leadership development, home-centered congregation-supported ministry, and organizational health founded on Healthy Relationships and Holy Manners as described on his website, holymanners.org. He has served six congregations as either an Interim Minister or vacancy pastor so far. At this training event, Scott is honored to share insights and experience regarding Transitional Interim Ministry and how family systems can enhance one’s service in this unique ministry.
Registration
Registration is now open.
Deadline to register is September 8, 2025.
This conference is for pastors of the Michigan and Ohio districts who are considering Transitional Interim Ministry.
Registration Cost: $55
NOTE: If you would like to stay and attend the TIM Continuing Education course on September 24-25, 2025 please be sure to sign up for that on this registration form as well!