Transition is the word we use to describe the time following significant change. In congregations that change might be the departure of the pastor a catastrophe such as Hurricane Katrina or 911 or simply the changes caused by growth. Transition calls for clergy with special training to respond to the needs generated by the special time. Task training and time limit are the hallmarks of transitional ministry. Trained intentional interim clergy must have the skill and experience to lead congregations during transition.However transitional or interim ministry has a bad reputation in some places. As one diocesan leader said We have never had a church in this diocese that was so bad off that an interim was needed. Indeed there are some sick churches but most congregations have some good things happening and some things that need attention. Intentional interim ministry can be medicine for the sick but in most cases it is better compared to vitamins that are taken to promote health.This book seeks to clear up misconceptions about transitional ministry and present an accurate and uptodate picture of transitional ministry and to describe the various settings in which this specialized ministry can be helpful.Chapter authors all expert in transitional ministry in mainline Protestant denominations include Robert Friedrich John Keydel George Martin Loren Mead Barry Miller Nancy Miller Ineke Mitchell Ken Ornell Molly Dale Smith and Rob Voyle.