The Most Vulnerable Part of Succession: The Senior Pastor's Journey
The Hidden Struggle Behind Pastoral Succession
When people talk about succession planning, the conversation usually centers around strategy, timelines, and leadership. But in my experience walking alongside pastors and churches, there’s a deeply personal layer that rarely gets the attention it deserves: the emotional journey of the senior pastor.
In Episode 3 of The Leading Smart Podcast, we zoom in on this part of the process—the one that lives in the heart, not just the boardroom. We’ve watched pastors, especially long-time leaders and founders, wrestle with grief, uncertainty, and questions of identity. And we’ve seen that no matter how well the plan is drawn up, this inner journey can make or break a transition.
Why Is It So Hard?
For many senior pastors, the role isn’t just a job—it’s a calling, a community, and a lifelong mission. After decades of leadership, the church isn’t just what they do—it’s who they are.
I remember one pastor’s wife saying, “I never pictured us not being here.” That kind of deep-rooted connection makes the thought of stepping away feel disorienting.
Even rational, thoughtful leaders find themselves asking:
“Is this my last Easter?”
“Will I still matter?”
“Can we survive financially?”
In our conversations, two fears surface more than any others:
Loss of Identity
Financial Insecurity
And often, these fears—not a lack of readiness—are what keep pastors holding on longer than they need to. If you’re questioning whether it’s time to start the conversation about pastoral succession at your church, I’ve outlined 7 key signs in this blog post.
So What Can a Pastor Do?
Here are three steps I’ve found helpful for pastors navigating this season:
1. Talk to Someone—Now
This isn’t a journey to walk alone. Whether it’s a therapist, a coach, a close pastoral peer, or a trusted board member, having a safe space to process is critical.
“The important thing is talking. Whether it’s a therapist, friends, or someone who’s walked others through succession—you need a sounding board.”
2. Secure Trusted Financial Advice
So many pastors we’ve worked with are more financially prepared than they think—they just don’t know it yet. A good financial advisor can offer clear-eyed reassurance and help remove fear from the equation.
3. Start Building What’s Next
Succession doesn’t have to mean fading into the background. In fact, we encourage pastors to begin dreaming now. Is there a side project, nonprofit, or even a hobby you’ve shelved for years? One pastor we know is launching a flower business post-retirement, rooted in his love for gardening.
Small steps today can help build confidence in tomorrow.
Don’t Forget the Spouse and Family
Succession impacts more than just the senior pastor—it affects the whole family.
Spouses often have their own ministry identities. One pastor’s wife told us, “She doesn’t know anything beyond being a pastor’s wife.” That kind of change requires care and space to process.
And when children are on staff—or have grown up in the church’s legacy—it becomes even more personal. Identity, calling, and career can feel tangled. This is a transition for them, too.
After the Handoff: What’s the Right Role?
Once a successor is named, the outgoing pastor plays a vital part in shaping what comes next.
We encourage pastors to step into the role of Chief Cheerleader Officer (CCO)—someone who uses their trust equity to lift up and empower the new leader.
“Your job now is to pull those trust chips out of your pocket and put them into the pocket of your successor.”
And the successor? Their responsibility is to publicly and privately honor the legacy of the one who came before.
When done well, this mutual trust sets a beautiful example for the staff and congregation.
Bonus Advice: Guard the Backstage
One of the biggest indicators of a healthy succession isn’t what’s said on the platform—it’s what’s said in private.
The tone that outgoing and incoming leaders use with each other behind closed doors will shape the church’s culture long after the public moment passes.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re a senior pastor—or you’re supporting one—and you’re not sure where to start, we’re here.
We’ve helped pastors, spouses, and church boards walk through this exact season with compassion, discretion, and clarity. We’d love to connect you with a coach and walk this journey with you.