Sabbatical Noun; a period of time during which someone does not work at his or her regular job and is able to rest, travel, do research, etc. Adjective; of, relating to, or appropriate to the Sabbath as a day of rest and religious observance

Sabbatical The word "sabbatical" is derived from "Sabbath.“ Sabbath time is based on Genesis 2:1-4a in which God modeled and later required (Exodus 17:8-11) the setting aside of 1/7th of our time for re"creation" and restoration. Historically, in church and academia, the professionals were given a sabbatical every seventh year. The observation was that academic professors and clergy were so worn out after seven years of teaching and leading that they needed a time of rest, recovery, renewal, and reeducation in their field of endeavor. The purpose of the sabbatical leave is to provide time for a pastor to enrich his professional competence and/or given perspective on ministry through advanced study, travel, special project, or other planned activity for renewal. It provides a break from the day-to-day pressures of shepherding the congregation. Additionally, such a break provides a significant opportunity for spiritual renewal, essential for spiritual growth and revitalization of ministry to the congregation. Thus, sabbaticals are beneficial for both parish and pastor. Congregations are urged to consider including a sabbatical-leave policy as part of the call. See Matthew 14:13, 15:21, and Mark 7: SABBATICAL GUIDELINES Pacific Southwest and Southeastern Districts, LCMS

Sabbatical Some Values and Assumptions Sabbaticals are a way that congregations can minister to their pastors. Encouraging our clergy to maintain good self-care can be a benefit to the pastor, the congregation, and the church at large. When congregation and clergy are aligned, long-term ministry is desirable. In such instances a sabbatical is wise investment. A sabbatical, enables the pastor to achieve a new sense of vision, renew a calling, evaluate gifts and skills and the needs of the ministry. The sabbatical time can open up new opportunities for members to grow in service and thereby be a blessing for the congregation. Sabbatical leave should be an intentional part of a congregation's ministry, not a reaction to a crisis. (i.e. burnout)

Sabbatical Some benefits: For Congregation A pastor with a renewed energy and rediscovered zeal for ministry. An opportunity to develop congregational leadership and to come to a greater understanding of the congregation's ministry by assuming some of the pastoral duties An occasion for the congregation to reflect and assess their partnership with the pastor and ways to strengthen and improve ministry For Pastor A needed break from long hours, high pressure, personal sacrifice, and the 24/7 nature of ministry A time for prayer, rest, study, decision making, and travel A change of scenery and place which can help prevent burnout The opportunity to develop greater self-awareness and spiritual depth A time with family and friends, to renew and strengthen those relationships

Sabbatical Some Practical Considerations – Timing Every 7 years, during a period of health and stability Not a cure for burnout, a failing church or during times of crisis – Duration 2-4 months plus vacation time available. Sabbaticals in academia are often a full year. – Costs Cost of travel, research, recreation and renewal Costs to congregation and school: preaching, teaching administering Grants and funding mechanisms

Sabbatical Support and Guidance Council Discussions over the last two Council meetings Read and considered: – LCMS Sabbatical guidelines Southwest District, Southeast District – Sabbatical practices in academic settings and other denominations – Input from other pastors Input from staff Input from the board of elders

Sabbatical Immanuel Policy Framework Pastoral sabbatical every 7 years of continuous ministry Summer of 2016 for Pastor Steven 3 months plus vacation time Commitment not to seek call for a 2-year period after sabbatical Ministry plan during sabbatical including church and school Formal Sabbatical plan with specific goals including re- integration plans Seek outside funding sources as wells as consider budgeted set-asides to cover costs

Sabbatical “K” input Authority – Responsibility – Knowledge “A”Support and Guidance Council “R”As assigned “K”We need your feedback! Bob David Rick Brad Lisa Vern Chip