February 2026
If you’re looking for a worthwhile read during these cold
winter nights, I highly recommend Becoming God’s Family by
Carmen Joy Imes. Whether you read it for personal
reflection or as part of a group Bible Study, this book offers
profound insights. While it can be a challenging read at
times, discussing it together provides a wonderful
opportunity to clarify thoughts and build closer relationships. There are questions at the
end of each chapter that are not specific to an interim process so a series of relevant
questions that are focused on our needs can be picked up, along with the book, at the
church office. Reading this book will provide encouragement during the interim process, as
it directly addresses the theological and relational hurdles churches face during seasons of
transition
Reasons for Reading This Book
1. Stabilizes Identity in times of Transition
An interim period is often marked by identity confusion, grief over the past minister, and
anxiety about the future. This book counters that instability by providing a stable, biblical
foundation. It shifts the congregation’s focus from who is leaving or arriving to who they
are in Christ—a family defined by God’s covenant, not by human leadership. This promotes
stabilization and grounds the church in eternal truths.
2. Promotes Unity and Heals Dysfunction
The book’s unflinching look at Israel’s failures (dysfunction, exile, family drama) gives the
congregation a theological framework to process its own past hurts, conflicts, or
necessary changes without shame. By emphasizing covenant love, forgiveness, and
reconciliation (Chapters 7 & 8), it prepares the congregation to present a unified and
healed body to the incoming minister, fulfilling a primary goal of the interim process.
3. Creates Objective Criteria for the Call
The book is structured around ten key theological concepts (covenant, grace, mission,
presence, commitment). By studying these themes, the congregation collectively develops
a shared vocabulary and clear vision of the biblical church. This translates directly into
objective criteria for self-evaluation and discernment ensuring they choose a minister
whose theology and philosophy align with the church’s core identity, rather than just
subjective personal preference.
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4. Empowers Lay Leadership
The book stresses that the Church is the Body of Christ and the New Temple where God’s
presence dwells in all members (Chapter 6). This directly challenges the common “pastoras-performer/CEO” model. It validates the gifts and responsibilities of the laity, equipping
the congregation to be active participants in ministry. This ensures the next pastor inherits
a committed, engaged, and ready-to-serve church, reducing dependency on a single figure.