Call Process

Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
– Morning Prayer –
Evangelical Lutheran Worship pg. 304

This web page is the beginning of a resource that will guide you through the steps of a pastoral transition. During this journey you will work with the bishop, the synod ministers and staff, and your conference call team. May God bless and guide you and your congregation during this time of change, loss, reflection, discovery, choices, and new beginnings.

Helpful resources for congregations going through the Call Process –

If you need any assistance during this process please contact:

Rev. Kathryn Skoglund, Synod Minister
(507) 637-3904

Glacial Ridge Conference
Lac Qui Parle Conference
Prairie Conference
Scenic Valley Conference
Shetek Conference

Rev. Stephen Cook, Synod Minister
(507) 637-3904

Crow River Conference
Great River Conference
Lakeland Conference
Minnesota Valley Conference
Watonwan River Conference

Tammy Schacher, Support Staff
(507) 627-9041

Our pastor is leaving…now what? Video.
Synod Ministers, Kathryn and Steve, talk through the Call Process.
Click here to download this video.

Call Process Manual

Step 1 – The Current Pastor Resigns
Resource 1A – Attestation of Record, Financial Obligations
Resource 1B – Liturgy for Departure of a Pastor
Resource 1C – Pastors Relating to Previously Served Parishes
Resource 1D – The Ethics of Pastoral Transition
Resource 1E – Sample Call Process Timetable

Step 2 – Beginning the Interim
Resource 2A – Synod Policy and Compensation for Interim Ministries
Resource 2B – Letter of Agreement for Interim Ministry (word doc)
Resource 2C – Information Package for Interim Pastors
Resource 2D – Minnesota Statute 604
Resource 2E – 604 Compliance Admin. Agreement
Resource 2F – Sample Litany of Welcome & Blessing (word doc)
Resource 2G – Reflections on an Interim Pastorate

Step 3 – Completing the Ministry Site Profile (MSP)
Resource 3A – Sample MSP Form
Resource 3A – MSP Form
Resource 3B – Congregational Ministry Site Characteristic Survey
Resource 3C – Portico Benefit Services Calculators

Step 4 – Forming the Call Committee
Resource 4A – Call Committee Questionnaire
Resource 4B – Synod Compensation Guidelines
Resource 4C – Recognition of Ministry of Call Committee (word doc)
Resource 4D – Devotions for Congregations in Call Process
– Five Brief Devotions for Congregations in Call Process (word doc)
– Five Devotions on Discernment from the Book of Acts (word doc)
Resource 4E – Pastoral & Congregational Leadership Continuum (word doc)

Step 5 – Considering Candidates (Competency, Chemistry, Commitment)
Resource 5A – Pastoral Candidate Nomination Form
Resource 5B – Thoughts Re: Interview Process
Resource 5C – Sample Interview Questions
Resource 5D – Sample Invite for Personal Interview (word doc)
Resource 5E – Conducting an Interview
Resource 5F – Call Committee Report of Interview (word doc)
Resource 5G – Candidate’s Report of Interview (word doc)
Resource 5H – Sample: Release of Candidate (word doc)

Step 6 – Extending the Call
Resource 6A – Definition of Compensation Form
Please email kristin.bakeberg@swmnelca.org for a word file of Resource 6A
Resource 6B – Steps for Completion of Comp Form
Resource 6C – Sample of Completed Comp Form – NO parsonage provided
Resource 6C – Sample of Completed Comp Form – WITH parsonage
Resource 6D – Sample – Successful Vote of Congregation (word doc)
Resource 6E – Liturgy for Departure of Interim Pastor (word doc)

Step 7 – Welcoming Your New Pastor
Resource 7A – Service of Installation of a Pastor (word doc)
Resource 7B – Call Process Evaluation Form (word doc)
Resource 7C – Review of Interim Pastorate (word doc)
50 Ways to Welcome Your New Pastor