About the Pastoral Search Books

The Pastoral Search Journey: A Guide to Finding Your Next Pastor

Alban No. AL402
Published March 2010
Paper, 168 pages

Most churches have sought out a new pastor many times, yet search committees often feel as though they are inventing the process from scratch. In The Pastoral Search Journey, John Vonhof provides detailed guidance for search committees to ensure a good match between pastor and congregation. This is Vonhof’s third book about the pastoral search—but the first to discuss interim pastors, transitions between pastors, and the use of the Internet and digital media.

Congregational leaders on establishing the search committee; ensuring the congregation is cared for during the pastoral vacancy; conducting the congregational self-study and creating an information packet; finding, communicating with, and interviewing candidates; determining selection criteria as well as evaluating and recommending candidates; managing call negotiations; and finally welcoming the congregation’s new pastor. Sample letters, forms, and other tools are provided.

This book can be ordered through The Alban Institute or Amazon at the links in the right column.

The Alban Guide to Managing the Pastoral Search Process

Alban No. AL204
Published 1999
Paper, 125 pages

Pastoral search teams for congregations in all denominations will find a wealth of information and ideas in The Alban Institute's guide to the complex task of finding a new pastor. Every step is detailed: forming the search team, keeping the congregation informed, conducting a congregation self-study, communicating with candidates, developing selection criteria, conducting interviews, managing the call process, and arranging for a smooth transition. Sample letters, forms, and other tools are provided for use in major aspects of the search process.

This book has been replaced by the above book.