November 2025, Part 1 of 6
I am preparing to embark on my first sabbatical. The HOP council began making plans when I began my call here, and then officially approved its sabbatical policy in 2022. After every 6 full years of service, the pastor is eligible for a 12-week sabbatical.
Sabbatical experiences are inspired by the Third Commandment: “Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy.” God has created human beings with a need for rest and reconnection with God each week. Think of a sabbatical as the sabbath day but on a larger scale.
Ideally, every worker should get a sabbatical to be re-centered in their vocation. A pastoral sabbatical is granted not because this work is “harder” than others but because the challenges are unique. Intentional planning for a sustained time of rest and spiritual renewal helps fulfill a larger goal upon returning—for pastor and congregation to continue pursuing our calling together with even more passion and engagement.
My sabbatical will be from May 5 – July 27, 2026. Plans include a Scandinavian pilgrimage to the places my ancestors originated; spending time at my extended family’s cottage in upstate New York; and taking part in the “Deep Breath” program for clergy renewal at Holy Wisdom Monastery near Madison, WI.
Once a month until the sabbatical begins, I will share a brief article like this one in the Express, describing various aspects of pastoral sabbaticals.
If you’re interested in more information about sabbaticals, you can ask me about it, or read the HOP Sabbatical Policy and/or my notes on the book Planning Sabbaticals: A Guide for Congregations and Their Pastors, by Robert C. Saler.