The Global Methodist Church has established processes and policies to help local churches have long pastoral appointments. Research has shown the most effective ministry occurs at 7 years and beyond in a pastoral appointment. Our process in the North Georgia Conference is designed to help pastors and congregations work through some of the challenges that historically have tended to end appointments prematurely.

The goal of the process is to help congregations find the right pastor for their mission area, keep them for a long and effective ministry, and have a graceful transition when necessary. Paragraph 610 in the Book of Doctrines and Discipline and the following values guide us in this process:

• Covering all decisions in prayer
• Fostering long-term appointments
• Providing Congregations and pastors with the best possible fit
• Working collaboratively with both pastors and congregations
• Taking the necessary time to get appointments right
• Utilizing our presiding elders to shepherd everyone through the process
• Placing the collective good above personal desires

Learn more about the full process of requesting pastoral appointment change.