Leaving Well: A Guide for Retired Pastors & Deacons
Saint Paul Area Synod – Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Leaving Well is a guide developed by the Saint Paul Area Synod (ELCA) to help pastors and deacons navigate retirement and departure from a congregation with clarity and integrity. The guide addresses the relational and emotional realities of leave-taking, including grief, shifting identity, and changing roles. It emphasizes the importance of ending ministerial functions fully and clearly in order to support the incoming pastor or deacon and protect the congregation’s ability to move forward.
Topics Include:
The changing nature of pastoral relationships once a call concludes
Clear boundaries around weddings, funerals, baptisms, pastoral visits, teaching, and congregational involvement
The impact of continued pastoral presence on congregational health
Responding appropriately to requests from former parishioners
Communicating retirement decisions in a clear and orderly way
Sharing necessary institutional knowledge before departure
Completing unfinished responsibilities and records
The guide also addresses emotional and spiritual preparation for retirement, encouraging spiritual awareness, intentional discernment, and attention to grief.
While written for use within the ELCA, the principles outlined in the guide offer a helpful framework for any leader seeking a healthy pastoral transition.