Following the adoption of the Synod Deployment policy in March 2022, the role of Interim Moderators fundamentally changed, and such people are no longer appointed immediately a church goes into pastoral vacancy. Instead a “Visionary Companion” (VC) is appointed and you can find details of this role below.
Visionary Companions are being sought across the Synod with a remit to support churches in thinking creatively and perhaps differently about their future. These are people with specific skills who may not have been involved in church leadership before. They may be, or have been, facilitators, trainers, management consultants, market researchers, teachers, policymakers – people who can see alternative opportunities and think ‘outside the box’. Most importantly Visionary Companions can work with people from diverse backgrounds and view to encourage and who may have embedded views. They need to be driven by prayer to help churches discern God’s future for the church, neither imposing nor suggesting models that may not fit with God’s plans.
An Interim Moderator might still be appointed after the VC has completed their role. There is plentiful experience, support and guidance for those new to this role and there are more details on the URC website
NEW Feedback and learning day for potential and existing Visionary Companions
Come and find out more about the role and learn from experienced VCs.
Tuesday 30 September 10.15 -3pm at Tonbridge URC
Come if you are:
- An existing VC or IM
- Curious about the role
- Willing to help other churches
- Keen to share views on VCs
- Keen to know more
For more details or to book please email Sue Eardley
See you there!
Page last updated 18th September 2025
Photo Unsplash credit Austin Chan thank you