Calling a pastor is an important time of transition. The bishop and synod staff  provide direction, support, and resources to congregational leaders as they guide the congregation in grieving the departure of the pastor, assessing the current congregational strengths and weaknesses, creating a vision for mission and ministry, and calling a new pastor. The goal is the same for both synod and congregation: to enter the next chapter of the congregation's history and ministry as strong and healthy as possible, with the best possible pastoral leadership that fits that congregation's needs and challenges. With that aim, the synod provides a number of tools for congregations. The links in this section provide additional resources and information.