The church should also publicly recognize their new roles, and remind the congregation that staff will now be overworked. Redefining job descriptions is always difficult and should be done in consultation with staff. No one likes to take on responsibilites for which they do not feel gifted nor trained. If tasks are divided among staff, frequent recognition should be given to them during the interim, and they should be affirmed in some way after a new pastor is called. Sometimes, during the excitement of getting a new pastor, the church overlooks the extra burdens present staff have taken during the interim.
Some interims are free to truly be a pastor.
Most are limited in the time they are able to give to the tasks. A carefully written job description will help avoid misunderstandings in this regard. Below is a list of functions interims may be asked to fulfill. Those negotiating with an interim should consider which of these functions they expect from the interim. An interim needs time off.