Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

First Advisor

Benjamin Brammer

Second Advisor

Kris K Barnett

Abstract

Pastoral transitions represent spiritually significant yet often under-supported moments in the life of clergy, congregations, and ministry networks. While leadership change is frequently framed in theological language emphasizing divine calling and institutional continuity, insufficient attention is given to the emotional, relational, and familial dimensions of these transitions. This Doctor of Ministry project examines the spiritual and emotional impact of pastoral transitions within African American church contexts, with particular attention to clergy wellbeing and systems of care.

This study employed a mixed-methods research design integrating quantitative survey data with qualitative semi-structured interviews. Survey instruments were distributed to pastors affiliated with The Kingdom Network (TKN) and related ministry ecosystems to assess patterns of emotional experience, perceived institutional support, and family impact during transitions. The quantitative data provided descriptive insight into recurring themes of grief, identity disruption, stress, and resilience. To deepen interpretive understanding, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, allowing participants to narrate their transition experiences in their own words. The qualitative data were analyzed thematically, identifying common patterns related to spiritual discernment, emotional processing, gaps in mentorship, and deficiencies in systemic support Findings indicate that although pastoral transitions are typically framed within theological narratives of calling and obedience, many clergy lack structured mechanisms for emotional reflection, relational accountability, and long-term accompaniment. The research further highlights the communal and culturally embedded dimensions of pastoral transition within African American ecclesiology, where leadership is historically relational and symbolically significant..

Findings indicate that although pastoral transitions are typically framed within theological narratives of calling and obedience, many clergy lack structured mechanisms for emotional reflection, relational accountability, and long-term accompaniment. The research further highlights the communal and culturally embedded dimensions of pastoral transition within African American ecclesiology, where leadership is historically relational and symbolically significant.

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