I am filling in for a pastor of a small church while he is away on a sabbatical. I am more fortunate than many pastors because I was able to have 5 sabbaticals over 40 years of ministry. As I reflect back on them now, I realize how valuable they were to my ongoing ministry. I want to reflect on several issues surrounding the experience of sabbaticals over the next few days. In our age of increased stress, and of the rising, and often confusing expectations for pastors, I think sabbaticals are a vital factor in our maintaining energy and health in the exercise of our ministry.
They are good for the pastor in several ways. First, the very thought and planning for a sabbatical is energizing. Anticipation and planning for something that excites you has the added benefit of providing you renewed energy. The sabbatical itself provides an opportunity to step outside the constant demands of the pastorate and breathe deeply. Extra time with the family can be healing both for the pastor and members of the family. I remember clearly my youngest daughter saying to us during one of my sabbaticals, “I like sabbaticals. Daddy smiles more.” It was a poignant reminder of how I had let the stress of ministry affect my relation with my family. Sabbaticals also allow you to clear your head and get a perspective on your call and your ministry.
Sabbaticals are also good for the congregation. First of all, they become an encouragement for longer term pastorates. Second, they allow the congregation to also step back and get a sense of their ministry. Third, by strengthening and renewing their pastor, they benefit from that renewed spirit as s/he guides the congregation upon return.
There are some significant issues following a sabbatical that need to be addressed. I will look at some of them in the next few days.
