Common Questions

 

See also frequently asked questions of Congregations, Pastors, and Synod Staff.

What are the goals of the Interim Ministry Association of the ELCA?
Interim Ministry Association (IMA) serves the ELCA. IMA advocates for higher standards for all who practice interim ministry and promotes clarity of language about interim ministry. IMA increases awareness of the unique potential for positive change in congregations during the interim time, and the benefit of dedicated interim leadership for the health of the church. IMA encourages effective placement of pastors and other leaders in congregations experiencing transition. And IMA prompts the church to examine the impact of ELCA policy and procedure as it affects interim ministers and congregations in transition.

What does my membership in the Interim Ministry Association do?
Your membership supports a stronger voice of advocacy in the ELCA through the ELCA Conference of Bishops, synodical staffs, and the ELCA Churchwide Office on behalf of intentional interim ministry. IMA raises the concerns of interim pastors facing frequent transitions to the ELCA Board of Pensions. IMA informs you of exceptional continuing education especially designed for Lutheran intentional interim professionals. Your membership helps support an annual gathering of Lutheran interim leaders and synodical staff from across the country (and a few international participants) who are engaged in transitional ministry for support, networking, and sharing best practices of interim ministry.

What comes with membership in the Interim Ministry Association?
Membership in the Interim Ministry Association includes a subscription to the IMA Newsletter (sent to your e-mail address); a member discount for the Annual Continuing Education Event and Conference; and a common voice with other Lutheran interim ministers as we establish and promote interim ministry in the ELCA. Participation in the IMA also offers a place where your interim ministry concerns can be addressed or referred to the most helpful place. By participating in this association, you help inform, reform, and support this important ministry.

What is the cost and how do I become a member?
Membership dues are $50 per calendar year. Please forward your dues to:
Interim Ministry Association
c/o ELCA Vocation and Education
8765 W Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631.
Please include your name, address, email address, phone number and synod.

How does the IMA accomplish its goals?
Each summer we gather during the National Association of Lutheran Interim Pastors Annual Conference, an important time for continuing education and networking. The Annual Meeting is held at that time. Reports from the Churchwide Organization and from the IMA board are received, current issues are discussed, and board members are elected to continue the work over the next year. Between annual meetings (much like the local congregation), the IMA board directs work toward the goals, manages the organization and business affairs, produces the newsletter and responds to inquiries.

As in every voluntary organization, broader participation helps move the IMA forward. In times of organizational and personnel change in our church, knowledgeable and willing members are especially needed.

Question not answered?
If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please email us at VE.Info@elca.org.