What Is An Interim Pastor?

As Southbridge moves through the transition between lead pastors, Pastor David Horner is serving as our Interim Pastor. But what exactly does an interim pastor do, and what does that role look like at Southbridge?

An interim pastor helps provide continuity, stability, and pastoral leadership while a church prepares for its next lead pastor. Because every church is different, the responsibilities of an interim pastor can vary depending on the needs of the congregation.

David Horner will serve as our Interim Pastor. David is a longtime friend of Southbridge, and we are grateful for his willingness to step into this role and serve our church during this transition.

What will David's role be at Southbridge?

David will serve primarily in two areas: preaching and shepherding.

He will be our primary preaching voice on Sunday mornings, generally preaching about three Sundays each month. On the other Sundays, we’ll continue to hear from pastors already serving within Southbridge. This allows us to have consistency in the pulpit while continuing to benefit from the pastors God has placed within our church.

David will also help shepherd and care for our church, staff, and elders throughout the transition. He brings many years of pastoral ministry, teaching, and leadership experience, and we are grateful for the wisdom and care he brings to Southbridge during this time.

What won't the Interim Pastor be responsible for?

David will not oversee the day-to-day operations of Southbridge or make decisions about starting, ending, or changing ministries. Those responsibilities will continue to be led by our existing staff and leadership.

The Interim Pastor role is intentionally focused on providing pastoral leadership and a consistent preaching presence while allowing our staff to continue leading the ongoing ministry of the church.

How long will David serve as Interim Pastor?

There is not a predetermined end date for David's role. He will serve as Interim Pastor until Southbridge's next Lead Pastor is called and in place.

We want to give that process the time, wisdom, and prayer it deserves rather than rushing toward a particular timeline.

Welcoming David and Cathy

We are incredibly grateful for David and his wife, Kathy, and for their willingness to invest in our church family during this transition.

As you see them around Southbridge, take a moment to introduce yourself and welcome them. Most importantly, we encourage you to pray for David and Kathy, our staff and elders, and for God's continued direction for Southbridge.

If you have questions about the Interim Pastor role or the Lead Pastor transition, you can speak with an elder or pastor on a Sunday morning or email elders@sfchurch.com.