news article
Transforming pastoral transitions through intentional ministry
September 16, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Due to low attendance, this event is being cancelled.
When United Methodist churches experience pastoral loss—whether through death, illness, misconduct, chronic conflict, or retirement following a long pastorate—some congregations may need intentional time to heal and prepare for new leadership. While the standard practice is immediate pastoral appointment, the Cabinet may determine that certain circumstances warrant an interim appointment.
Transitional Intentional Interim Ministry Specialists (TIIMS) provides specialized training for pastors who may be called to serve in these exceptional interim appointments, helping congregations navigate grief, address underlying issues, and develop vision for future ministry.
Why TIIMS Training Matters
The specialized skills taught in TIIMS training benefit every pastoral setting—not just designated interim appointments. Many participants report wishing they had received this training earlier, as these competencies enhance ministry effectiveness regardless of appointment type.
Training Structure
TIIMS training is a comprehensive three-phase learning experience spanning six months:
Phase I: Foundation (3 days)
Intensive orientation to intentional interim ministry principles and practices.
Phase II: Application (5 months)
Practical application in your current ministry setting, including ongoing mentoring and case study development.
Phase III: Integration (3 days)
Culminating gathering to synthesize learning and present case studies.
Training Details
Location: Upper New York Conference Center, Liverpool, NY
Dates: Beginning October 22-24, 2025
Leaders:
- Rev. Jane Sautter, Retired Elder, Upper New York Conference
- Rev. David Underwood, Retired Elder, Upper New York Conference
Both leaders are approved by the Transitional Intentional Interim Ministry Specialists Association (TIIMSA) and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM).
Investment: $750 for the complete six-month program with payment plans available
Who Should Attend
- Current pastors seeking to enhance ministry skills in congregational transition.
- Clergy interested in developing expertise for potential interim appointments.
- Ministers serving congregations experiencing change.
- Any United Methodist pastor interested in developing competencies in congregational healing and renewal.
This training equips participants with essential skills for navigating change, facilitating healing, and preparing congregations for healthy transitions—competencies valuable in any pastoral setting.
Click here to register for the training. The deadline to register is Monday, October 20, 2025. If you have questions about the training, contact Rev. Sautter at (315) 225-6170 or pastorjfs@gmail.com.
If you need hotel accomodations, a section of rooms have been blocked off at the Staybridge Hotel at 439 Electronics Parkway in Liverpool. Click here to make a reservation at the Staybridge or call (888) 211-9874 and use the group block code KKJ.