Time for Reflection. Usually the pace of ministry and life don’t allow for deep reflection and review. As soon as we finish something, we are on to the next thing. Sabbatical will be an opportunity to look back on the last four and a half years. This will be an exercise in gratitude and growth. I am very grateful for the way that our mutual ministry committee has helped me identify growth opportunities and supported me in making positive changes in these last few months. It has already made an important difference in my ministry. I will take our work and discussions into sabbatical time and continue that work.
Worship. I will have the opportunity to experience worship in different congregations in different settings and bring those experiences back to our congregation.
Travel and Time with Family and Friends.
I am very much aware and grateful for the sacrifices my family makes for the sake of my ministry. They offer hospitality of both home and spirit. They manage with my every changing schedule. Because I am always on call, they are always on call too. When emergencies arise, we all have to adjust. I am grateful to be able to spend this time with them.
The combination of reflecting on our ministry together, working through this project, worshipping on other settings, and being released from my regular duties will certainly provide time for personal refreshment and professional growth and renewal.
