Clergy Sabbatical Program

The Clergy Leadership Institute is developing a series of collaborative peer group sabbatical programs that are designed to provide rest, refreshment and renewal for:

• the clergy person
• their family
• their congregation or place of ministry

The sabbatical programs are designed to create small learning communities who can support and inspire one another not only during the sabbatical but also as they integrate back into their place of ministry. Each sabbatical plan includes:

• a time of rest or non-demand activity i.e. a time lying fallow
• a time of reflection and studying
• a time of preparing for the future

Most sabbatical cluster groups will be focussed around a common ministry theme, such as spiritual direction, Christian formation, peace and justice etc. Each cluster will have at least two mentors:

• an "expert" in the field of interest
• a clergy coach to help process the experience

The sabbatical program will be implemented using the following model:

Pre-sabbatical Planning:

Developing a specific sabbatical plan for:
the clergy, and their family,
the parish to engage in during the sabbatical

During the Sabbatical Time:
the clergy will meet for at least a week together in retreat and training. This may include spouses depending on area of focus and the peer group.

Biweekly teleconference for clergy during the sabbatical.

Telephone based consultation with parish leadership as they implement their sabbatical program.

Post Sabbatical Integration:

Biweekly teleconference for clergy for a minimum of three months as they integrate back into their place of ministry and implement new learning and understanding.

If you are in the sabbatical contemplation stage and would like more information about our sabbatical programs please email Rob Voyle. Please briefly describe your current ministry setting and what you are thinking of for both the recreational and study component for your sabbatical time.