Walking Together Through Transition

A Pastoral Transition Team continues to meet regularly to prepare for the June 30, 2027, retirement of Senior Pastor Joy Barrett and the appointment of a new pastor to serve Chelsea First into the future. 

The 13-member team was appointed by the Leadership Board earlier this year and is being led by Mike Vanderspool, who also serves as chair of the Leadership board. Other members include retired pastors, Leadership Board members, personnel team members, as well as long-time and newer Chelsea First members. The team also reflects a diversity of ages and life experiences.

Seeking God’s Vision for the Future 

During a recent meeting, the team worked to clarify the traits Chelsea First is seeking in a new pastor and continues to outline the many steps the congregation will need to take to be ready to both celebrate Joy’s many years of faithful service and welcome a new senior pastor.

Giving Thanks for Pastor Joy’s Ministry

“For more than two decades, Joy has shepherded our church with humility, wisdom and unwavering commitment,” Vanderspool said in a February congregational letter announcing the upcoming transition.

“Through seasons of growth and challenge, celebration and sorrow, her leadership has shaped our congregation spiritually and strengthened our mission. Countless lives have been touched through her preaching, pastoral care, mentorship, friendship, and example of faithful service,” he wrote.

Vanderspool said he would provide an update on the work of this transition team during the June 24 town hall meeting. That meeting also will provide an opportunity for members of the congregation to ask questions and offer advice as the Leadership Board prepares for its annual planning session, scheduled for Aug. 4.

What Happens Next?  Understanding the Appointment Process

It also is important to understand the process of pastoral appointment in The United Methodist Church, Vanderspool said.

UMC pastors are appointed to a local church by the bishop, with input from the “appointive cabinet” (the district superintendents and clergy assistant to the bishop). Local churches do not assemble a search committee or interview candidates, but local churches are consulted so the bishop and his team understand the needs of the congregation.

Typically, pastors are appointed one year at a time, from July 1-June 30. The decision-making process for new appointments begins in mid-January. “Since Joy is retiring June 30, 2027, we expect to learn of our new pastor by the spring of 2027,” Vanderspool said.

Priorities for the Journey Ahead

Among the many topics and details the transition team will be considering are these: 

• How best to celebrate the ministry of Senior Pastor Joy Barrett and her husband and dedicated church volunteer Rob Long.
• Identifying the most important traits we are seeking in a new senior pastor.
• How to prepare our congregation to welcome a new senior pastor.
• How best to help a new pastor transition to Chelsea.
• Articulating clear goals for the church in the coming year.

Meet the Team 

Members of the transition team include Senior Pastor Joy Barrettt, Rick Fitzgerald, Sue Ivey, Dawn Goellner, Todd Hubbard, Brent McCumons, Ron Mourad, Nolan Peterson, Theresa Plank, Mike Vanderspool, Mark Van De Wege, Susan Wellman and Casey Wooster.

Stay Engaged in the Journey

The team will continue to provide updates. Church members are encouraged to reach out to any member of the transition team with questions.