Pastoral Transition Updates
The pastoral transition page is a resource for members and friends of the congregation to stay up-to-date on the transition process as Peace Lutheran Church begins its journey of calling a new pastor. The call process is a sacred and vital discernment undertaken by the congregation under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As information becomes available through the call committee, this page will be updated.
The Transition Process
The transition from one called rostered minister to another is exciting and uncertain. The process includes five phases or steps the congregation will prayerfully journey together with the support of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
A Prayer for Guidance
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Direct us, O Lord God, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and extend to us your continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in you, we may glorify your holy name; and finally, by your mercy, bring us to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
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From sundaysandseasons.com
Copyright (C) 2026 Augsburg Fortress. All Rights Reserved.
Transitions are a part of life, filled with both challenge and opportunity. For communities of faith, transitions are fertile ground for God’s transformational work. To learn more about how the synod support congregations in transition, click the button above.
To learn more about the process click the button above to read the guidelines established by the ELCA and the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod.
Questions?
Contact Emily Foster, Congregation President president@myplc.org
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How long will the process take?
Every Call Process varies in length. It will normally take between 6 months and 1 year, but some last longer. The length of the process depends on the number of candidates interviewed; the time call committee and candidates have available for conversation, and the needs of the congregation for grieving and preparation for the next pastor.
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How does the synod support the transition process?
The Assistant to the Bishop for Mobility & Candidacy is the main point of contact for congregations in transition. The Assistant to the Bishop will work closely with the congregation president and the call committee chair throughout the discernment and call process. This relationship begins when the current rostered minister announces their transition.
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How can I support the transition process?
Your prayers and patience are one of the most important ways you can support the transition process. As needs become available, they will be communicated through the council.
Transition Announcement
Pastor Eric announced his transition to a new call on April 19, 2026, and you can read his letter to the congregation here.
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Emily Foster, congregation president, also wrote a letter to the congregation in response to Pastor Eric's announcement, and you can read it here.
Farewell & Godspeed
A Celebration of Ministry will be held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, Trinity Sunday, at 10:00 a.m. The worship service will include holy communion and the rite of thanksgiving for ministry (farewell and Godspeed). All are welcome to attend.
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Following worship a luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall to honor Pastor Eric. All are welcome to attend.
Next Steps
The congregation council meets on Sunday, May 17, for its last official meeting with Pastor Eric.
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The council will be making announcements to the congregation as they become available.
The Call Committee
Respecting the boundaries of the call committee is crucial for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and prayerful discernment process. The call committee is tasked with representing the whole congregation while maintaining strict confidentiality regarding candidates.
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The call process is not a typical business hiring, but a prayerful discernment of the Holy Spirit, requiring patience and prayer.
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The committee will follow established, mutually agreed-upon timelines to prevent anxiety within the congregation.
Call Committee Members
Coming Soon!