Managing Transitions

As part of the Vital Church Initiative (VCI) process, Deacon Loretta Job and I have joined a 24-month peer mentoring group. We participate with other clergy who are leading VCI churches in a program of discussion, prayer and reading. One of our monthly reads is Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change by William Bridges (3rd edition, 2009, De Capo Press)

Bridges suggests that change in an institution succeeds or fails based on how well its leaders manage transitions. In fact, it is crucial that leaders not only be skilled in strategic planning and change leadership, but that they must also bring skills to transition management..

Leaders must be aware that people move through three phases in times of transition and that each phase calls for intentional planning. Bridges describes the three phases of transition this way:

1. Ending: This is the process of letting go of the old way of doing things and the old identity. It is a time to assist people in dealing with losses and change through compassionate listening and ritualized endings.

2. Neutral Zone: This is an in-between time when the old is being phased out, but the new isn't fully in place. Bridges used the image of Moses leading the people in the wilderness. While it can be a time of questioning and worry, leaders help people to see that the neutral zone can also be a time for creativity, exploration and hope.

3. Beginning: We come out of transition by recognizing new beginnings.This is when people accept a new identity, experience new energy, and discover a new sense of purpose that makes the change begin to work. (Bridges 2009, p. 4-5)

As we begin the process of implementing the VCI prescriptions, we will each experience endings, "wilderness" and beginnings. Each person will come to these times individually, depending on their role in Brighton First's ministry. For the moment, there is very little visible change in worship, program or mission, but as we clarify our vision and move forward, we will experience change. I pray that we do not jump too quickly to change, without being attentive to the phases of transition.

William Bridges' Managing Transition, offers specific suggestions for helping institutions move through transition. I will be returning to this book for guidance in the months ahead and relying on God's assistance to lead with patience and grace.

To learn more, you are welcome to use the Vital Church Initiate lending library located in the copy room at Brighton First. Borrow a copy of Managing Transitions and other books we are using for information and guidance. (Note: If you are experiencing personal transition in your life, Bridges offers Transitions: Making Sense of Life's Changes.)