Call Process

The Northwestern Ohio Synod walks a congregation through the call process from the time of a pastor’s announcement of resignation or retirement to the extension of a call to a new pastor. We conduct exit interviews with the pastor and council; we meet with the council to explain the call process and manual, and we meet with call committees to explain their role and offer help with interviewing. We search for pastors who have gifts that match the gifts sought and needed by the congregations. We’re available to answer questions at all times.

The synod not only guides the congregation through the process in the above ways, but seeks to provide appropriate care in the absence of a pastor through interims and vacancy, supply, and vice pastors.

You may see a list of congregations currently in transition on the Congregations in Call Process page.

Are you interested in becoming a leader in the church? Learn about the candidacy process at ELCA.org.