Jay Kim & Steve Clifford

Insights from Jay and Steve

Leadership transitions in the local church are rarely easy, but when done well, they can become powerful seasons of growth, humility, and clarity. In a recent episode of Leaders in Living Rooms, host Sean Morgan sat down with Steve Clifford (former lead pastor) and Jay Kim (current lead pastor) to unpack the story of succession at Westgate Church.

Their journey is a standout example of how intentional planning, relational trust, and a willingness to embrace tension can lead to a healthy baton pass between leaders. Here are key takeaways from their story:

1. Start the Conversation Early—Even If You’re Not Ready Yet

Steve shared that he began thinking about transition in his mid-50s, even though it felt too soon to act. He and the elder board agreed to revisit the conversation at age 60, which gave space for prayerful discernment, soul preparation, and board alignment. Starting early gave room for a thoughtful, Spirit-led process rather than a rushed decision.

“I would hate for a guy to start a transition when, in his heart, he doesn’t want to do it. That’s where things go wrong.” – Steve Clifford

2. Don’t Rush the Timing—Let God Do His Work

Jay sensed an itch to lead back in 2016 while serving as a teaching pastor at Westgate. Although Steve saw potential in Jay even then, he wasn’t yet ready to hand off the wheel—and, in hindsight, Jay wasn’t ready to grab it. Jay’s four-year detour as a co-lead pastor in Santa Cruz gave him the experience, clarity, and formation he needed for what would come next.

“I thought leading would be awesome… and then I got thrown into the fire. But that fire formed me.” – Jay Kim

3. Relational Trust Is the Foundation for a Healthy Transition

While not every church transition includes a deep friendship, Steve and Jay’s longstanding relationship added strength to the process. Their ability to speak honestly, name ego when needed, and keep cheering each other on—even in moments of tension—was a key factor in a healthy handoff.

“For Steve to offer me a false hope would’ve been damaging. Instead, he gave me freedom and honesty. That built trust.” – Jay Kim

4. Change Doesn’t Equal Criticism

Jay and Steve lead differently. Steve is the opportunist, driven by passion and instinct. Jay is the planner, methodical and precise. As Jay took the reins, he made structural and cultural changes to align with his leadership style. Steve didn’t see this as a threat but as necessary evolution.

“I never thought Jay would lead the way I lead. I knew it had to be different—and I wanted him to thrive.” – Steve Clifford

5. Let Go of the Spotlight and Embrace Obscurity

One of the most powerful moments of the episode is Steve’s reflection on moving from the stage to the sidelines. A breath prayer—“There you are” instead of “Here I am”—became a reminder to walk into rooms as a servant, not a star.

“It’s easy to say you’re here to serve—until someone actually treats you like a servant.” – Steve Clifford

6. Tension Is Not a Sign of Failure—It’s a Sign of Movement

Jay compared the transition to wakeboarding. Without tension on the rope, the rider sinks. If the boat goes too fast, the rider falls. Healthy transition happens at a pace that feels a little too fast for the outgoing leader and a little too slow for the incoming one—and that’s exactly how it should feel.

“Tension means we’re moving together. It’s not comfortable, but it’s crucial.” – Jay Kim

This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a masterclass in humility, discipleship, and trust. Whether you’re an outgoing leader preparing to pass the baton or an incoming leader stepping into big shoes, the Westgate story offers this hope: healthy transitions are possible.

And they’re worth every hard, beautiful, messy moment.