After pastoral candidates are commissioned by the United Methodist Church, their next step in the ordination process is a Residency in Ordained Ministry.
Passion in Partnership currently works with RIOM programs in the North Carolina, Western North Carolina, and Alabama West Florida United Methodist Conferences. Pastoral candidates are assigned a RIOM coaching partner to help them process the journey. This coaching relationship extends through their first year of ordained ministry. Spouses of commissioned pastoral candidates are also offered the opportunity for coaching during the residency period so that, as a family, everyone has the support they need to be ministry in a balanced, life giving way.
“I would strongly encourage other clergy spouses to take part in RIOM coaching! It has been a wonderful experience in learning more about myself, my spouse, our family, and both of our professional goals. Monthly coaching calls leave me feeling challenged, renewed, and encouraged. We practice skills that are wonderfully applicable to any profession or role in life-goal setting, asking tough questions, self-reflection, and self-care.”
—Kate Stewart Timberlake, Medical Resident and Clergy Spouse