
Transitional Ministry Workshops
Foundations (part 1): April, May, June
Frameworks (part 2): July, August, September
2025 dates TBD
Meet TM Workshops
The format for TMWorkshops, like ministry itself, is ever evolving.
2023 Online Format
Based on feedback from past participants, we’ve decided to offer twice a month zoom workshops with a once a month small group discussion for 2023. We know there’s something special about being together in person, but a one week download of information is not the best format for meaningful engagement in the practice of transitional ministry. Plus with the rising cost of airfare and retreat facilities, the current zoom format is more equitable and accessible for pastors of all church sizes and roles. Additionally, both the content and pace of the presentations allow participants to reflect and practice what they’re learning in real time.
Zoom Recordings Available Online
Another big change this year is the ability to participate in these workshops at your own pace. By making the zoom presentations available online, participants can either join live or watch the recordings later (or both!). This is a huge benefit of the online format — the ability to review the content on demand.
Discussion Groups
We do want participants to connect with the material and with each other, so we’re adding a monthly small group discussion requirement to ensure that we supplement the large group experience on zoom with a smaller, more relational, discussion opportunity. This is new for 2023.
2023 TMW Retreat?
OK, we are in the very early stages of planning our first ever TMW Retreat. It will be open to all those who have participated in a TMWorkshop. It will probably be in the Seattle area in late July. Though there will be some exploration of the practice of transitional ministry, the format will be a retreat, not a workshop. The goal will be rest, encouragement, connection, and support. Sign up below for Retreat Updates.
TM Workshops offerings
Foundations - Orientation to the foundational concepts of Transitional Ministry. Topics include Elements of Change, congregational dynamics, context of the American mainline church, and the pastor as leader, among others.
Participants are required to attend (or watch the recording of) each of the 6 zoom presentations, engage in a monthly discussion group, and read the required text to receive a certificate of completion for Foundations // TMWorkshop 1. (21 contact hours)
Frameworks- Exploration of the Frameworks for engaging in Transitional Ministry. Topics include church dynamics, family systems theory, and conflict management among others. Participants are required to attend (or watch the recording of) each of the 6 zoom presentations, engage in a monthly discussion group, and read the required text to receive a certificate of completion for Frameworks // TMWorkshop 2. (21 contact hours)
Meet the Team
Co-Lead Teacher

Scott Lumsden: Co-Leader
Scott debuted Transitional Ministry Workshops in 2015 at Menuch Retreat & Conference Center after many years of teaching Interim Ministry at both the Seattle (‘07, ‘08, ‘09, ‘10, ‘11) and Princeton Theological Seminary (‘07, ‘08, ‘09) sites. His framework for TMWorkshops, called the Elements of Change, is based on some of the key concepts of interim ministry as well as his own experience of working with congregations in transition. When he’s not pondering transitional ministry, he’s usually hiking with his kids or baking overly complicated gourmet cookies.
Serves as Co-Executive Presbyter // Seattle Presbytery
Other Service // GA Special Committee on Per Capita and Financial Sustainability, Interim Pastor, Stated Supply Pastor, Church Consultant.
Areas of Focus // Elements of Change, Leading Change, (Anti) Mission Study, Family Systems
Co-Lead Teacher

Eliana Maxim: Co- Leader
Eliana joined Transitional Ministry Workshops in 2017 after serving as temporary and "gap" pastor in several churches. As co-executive presbyter, she works primarily with congregations in all types of transitions, pastoral leaders, and new expressions of worshiping communities.
Serves as Co-Executive Presbyter // Seattle Presbytery
Other Service // Vice moderator for the Committee of the Office of the General Assembly, Strategy Team for NEXT
Areas of Focus // The New Neighborhood, Theology & Worship in Times of Change, Race, Equity & Diversity, Are We Closing?
Contact
To find out more about Transitional Ministry Workshops, visit them here
