I have known Gary Smith for over two decades and have watched how well he led his church through numerous kinds of transitions at Fielder Church during his tenure. But his greatest work was transitioning out of leadership after 25 years as the Senior Pastor. He not only succeeded, by all accounts he exceeded even the best succession transitions of record. The principles he identifies in his book, Pastoral Transitions, will guide church leaders in every kind of transition, particularly those of succession. Frankly, most churches don’t do well in transitioning from a long-term pastor to a new one. Gary did it and has unique insight that can help churches who face succession transitions. The book is easy to read and incredibly practical. This needs to be a ‘must-read’ for any seminary student or church leader.
