KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (ABNS 10/31/25) — The American Baptist Churches USA Office of the General Secretary invites pastors, church leaders, and regional staff to participate in several upcoming Transition Ministries training events in 2026, and also encourages individuals who feel called to serve as Transition Ministers to complete the updated application.
Transition Ministries supports congregations and leaders navigating seasons of change, providing guidance in spiritual discernment, adaptive leadership, and healthy transition processes. These sessions and opportunities are designed to equip ministry leaders with practical tools, spiritual insight, and a network of support for this vital work.
Two informational sessions will open the year, offering participants an overview of Transition Ministries resources, training opportunities, and the application process for those interested in serving as Transition Ministers: - Wednesday, January 14, 2026 – 3:00 p.m. ET | 12:00 p.m. PT - Thursday, January 15, 2026 – 7:00 p.m. ET | 4:00 p.m. PT Registration for these sessions is available at www.abc-usa.org/events . Following these sessions, the 2026 training schedule includes both online and in-person opportunities for leaders to grow in transition ministry skills and understanding.
Training Session Descriptions:
Level I Training: This foundational course introduces the theology, framework, and core practices of intentional interim ministry. Participants will explore the five focus points of transition—Heritage, Mission, Leadership, Connections, and Future—while developing skills and gaining practical tools to guide congregations faithfully and strategically through times of transition. (CEUs available_
Level II Training : Building upon the principles introduced in Level I, this advanced training invites participants into deeper and more extensive work within the five focus points of transition. Leaders will strengthen their capacity to form and lead effective transition teams while guiding congregations toward renewed vitality and readiness for future ministry. (CEUs available)
Upcoming 2026 Training Dates: - Level I Foundational Transition Ministries Training (via Zoom) Friday–Saturday, March 20–21, 2026 Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. & Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (ET) Cost: $100 per person for Zoom sessions If three participants from the same church or region register, a $50 discount will be applied to the third registration. - If three participants from the same church or region register, a $50 discount will be applied to the third registration. - Level II Advanced Transition Ministries Training (via Zoom) Wednesday–Thursday, June 3–4, 2026 Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. & Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (ET) Cost: $100 per person for Zoom sessions - If three participants from the same church or region register, a $50 discount will be applied to the third registration. - If three participants from the same church or region register, a $50 discount will be applied to the third registration. - Level I Foundational Transition Ministries Training (in-person) Friday–Saturday, September 18–19, 2026 Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. & Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (ET) ABCUSA Office, King of Prussia, PA Cost: $175 per person If more than one person registers from a church or region, a $25 discount will be applied to each registration. - If more than one person registers from a church or region, a $25 discount will be applied to each registration. To register for these trainings, visit www.abc-usa.org/events .
In addition to the upcoming training events, ABCUSA invites ministers interested in serving in transitional ministry to complete or update their Transition Minister application. The application helps match skilled and spiritually grounded leaders with congregations in need of guidance during seasons of transition.
The application is available online at www.abc-usa.org/transitionministries .
“Transitional seasons are sacred opportunities for discernment, growth, and renewal,” said Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Strain, General Secretary of American Baptist Churches USA. “Through our Transition Ministries program, we equip and support leaders who walk alongside congregations as they listen for God’s call and prepare for new beginnings.”
“Through these trainings, we are cultivating leaders who journey with congregations through seasons of transition toward renewed mission and ministry,” said Rev. Dr. Patricia Hernandez, Associate General Secretary for Women in Ministry and Transition Ministries.
For more information about Transition Ministries events or to complete the Transition Ministries application, visit www.abc-usa.org/transitionministries .
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.
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