S2E7 How Pastoral Transitions Impact Church and Faith
Today on The Substance of Faith Podcast, Rudy Swigart tackles a critical yet often overlooked moment in church life: the departure of a beloved pastor. Whether it's a peaceful retirement, an unexpected firing, or a scandal, pastoral transitions impact far more than Sunday attendance—they affect the faith of the people in the pews.
In this episode, Rudy unpacks:
Why 10–30% of church members leave after a pastoral transition—sometimes permanently.
How sudden leadership changes can trigger a crisis of faith, especially in younger generations.
The difference between a healthy transition and a damaging one.
What pastors, boards, and congregants can do to preserve unity, trust, and spiritual connection during leadership change.
Why the church’s response during a transition may determine whether people stay connected to Jesus—or walk away entirely.
If your church has ever experienced the shockwave of a leader stepping down, this episode is for you.
“Don’t let a change in the pulpit become a breaking point for faith in the pews.”
Visit: www.substanceoffaithmedia.com
Contact Rudy: rudy@substanceoffaithmedia.com
Subscribe, share, and join the conversation—because when pastors leave, the real work begins.
