The Succession Conversation Nobody's Having (Part 4): Preparing Your Congregation for Leadership Change

The Healthy Church Staff Podcast

The Healthy Church Staff Podcast
The Succession Conversation Nobody's Having (Part 4): Preparing Your Congregation for Leadership Change
Feb 26, 2026 Episode 559

In this episode of the Healthy Church Staff Podcast, Todd Rhoades discusses the often overlooked emotional aspects of pastoral succession planning. While many churches focus on the logistics and selection of a new leader, they often neglect preparing the congregation emotionally for the transition. Todd outlines the importance of having conversations about the feelings and identity shifts that accompany such changes and emphasizes the need for emotional preparation to prevent resistance and unrest within the church community.• Churches often focus on the logistics and timeline of succession without addressing emotional preparations.• Transitions can evoke grief, fear, and identity questions among congregation members.• Churches need to start emotional conversations months ahead of the transition.• It is important to teach congregations the difference between honoring the past and being stuck in it.• Emotional preparation can help in smoothening the transition and help the congregation process the changes.• Todd offers support and advice through Chemistry Staffing for churches undergoing transition.

Have questions or comments? Send to podcast@chemistrystaffing.com

Be sure to subscribe to The Healthy Church Staff Podcast wherever you regularly listen to podcasts.

- - - - -

Is Your Church Hiring?
If your church is searching for a new staff member, reach out to Todd for a conversation on how he might be able to help.

Are You Looking for a New Ministry Role?
If you are open to a new church role in the next few months, add your free resume and profile at ChemistryStaffing.com.