Transition updates

Anchor lincoln

Anchor Lincoln
Transition Updates

The Lyon family is embarking on a new season as Matthew steps away from pastoring Anchor Lincoln to join the Tacoma PD. This means a new season is ahead for the church as well, and it raises all kinds of questions. Who will the next pastor be? How will the church change? And will I be happy about it?

Transitions of any kind can be anxiety inducing. We’ve created this landing page to serve as a clearinghouse for the latest information about what is happening. It will be updated frequently as new details emerge, so keep checking it regularly.

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THE SEARCH PROCESS

Our search team (comprised of leaders from Anchor Lincoln, the board and the larger Anchor network) has been hard at work for the past few months, screening applicants to find the best qualified candidates who would also be a good fit with Anchor’s unique culture.

In the coming weeks, we hope to announce plans to bring a prospective future pastor to Anchor Lincoln for a candidating weekend. At that time, there will be opportunities for the entire congregation to interact with that individual (and their spouse), and then provide feedback.

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IN THE MEANTIME…

We have asked Jeff Peabody to serve as Interim Congregation Pastor for Anchor Lincoln. Jeff and his wife Karin planted New Day Church in Federal Way and pastored it for over 22 years before wrapping up their ministry there earlier this year. Their experience gave them a heart for helping churches navigate change.

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Q&A

More questions or concerns? We’d love to speak with you. Click the button below to send us an email.

How long will the process take?

That all depends. If we bring in a candidate who is an obvious fit for both sides, things could move relatively quickly. If things are not so clear cut, it might take longer.

What is involved in the process?

The search team has been prayerfully reviewing resumes, interviewing candidates and talking to references. Each potential pastor is carefully evaluated as to their theological alignment with Anchor, their character and integrity, and their personality match for the needs of the congregation

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Once an individual has been identified as a possible good fit, they will be brought to Anchor for an in-person visit with the congregation. This will include the chance for the church to hear the person preach, as well as to engage in some group settings. More details to come as things unfold.

What do interim pastors do?

Much the same work that a permanent pastor does. They preach, provide guidance for the staff, offer congregational care and keep systems up and running.

Why bring in an interim?

An interim pastor offers a measure of stability and takes some of the pressure and urgency out of the equation. The church can take its time ensuring the choice for the next pastor has really been thoroughly vetted, prayed over and considered.

What can I do to help right now?

There are a number of vital and practical ways for each of us to play a part in determining the future of Anchor Lincoln.

Pray. Ask the Lord for discernment for the team and unity as we seek his direction. Pray that he will help us as a congregation to stay present to what he has for us in this season, and not just be fixated on the future.
Show up on Sundays. Transitions are often times when people disengage. Instead, will you lean in with us during this period? Will you pause long enough before making any decision about the future to join us in waiting to see what God might do in this time?
Engage with your questions and feedback. While not everyone can be part of the search team, everyone’s voice matters. We value your input! If you have any concerns or thoughts to share, feel free to send them in with the form below. There will also be opportunities to speak into the process as we schedule events with the candidate.
Serve where you can. This is the time to offer your time and talents to the Lord. Has there been a ministry on your heart that you’d be willing to join?
Continue your faithful financial giving. The more solid our financial base, the more options Anchor Lincoln will have moving forward.
Stay connected. One of the best ways to continue strengthening the church is to intentionally cultivate deeper relationships. Everyone processes change differently, but many, if not all of us, need support. Consider joining an Anchor Group this fall, or even just inviting someone to coffee.