Transitions
Times of change and transition affect people in different ways. For some it is a time of excitement where they feel re-energised and focused, for some there is a growing sense of anxiety due to the ‘unknown’, for other it is a mixture of both – and in reality most people move backwards and forwards between all three places at different times.
And of course in ministry, times of transition do not just affect one individual, but also affects those we are close to - our family and the parishes/communities we serve among. Ministry is a highly relational vocation and so it is no surprise that the transitions we face also affect those closest to us. We also recognise that times of transition can also open some of our own vulnerabilities. We want to do all that we can to support you during this time so that the transition you are facing can be navigated well.
The Mission and Ministry department have produced a booklet entitled Navigating times of transition well within the Diocese of Ely. This booklet does not provide all the ‘answers’, but rather highlights a number of different areas that would benefit from further thought and reflection. It has been developed through the lived experience of others and is a collection of ‘lessons learned’ – often through mistakes that have been made. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution for navigating transition well. At the end of this short guide, we have included some information leaflets that have been developed by the National team to support those who are facing a moment of transition at key times within the ministerial journey.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the Mission and Ministry Department for further information and support: missionandministry@elydiocese.org.