Got a Green Light - Now What?

Hello everyone. Thanks for signing on. I've recently received word that I was approved for a pastoral sabbatical grant. The grant will come from the Louisville Institute (http://www.louisville-institute.org/. The sabbatical is scheduled for the third week of June 2006 through the third week of August 2006.

I've been considering this for about three years. My work at the First Presbyterian Church of Clarks Summit, PA is deeply satisfying and enjoyable. It's also exhausting. This is my sixteenth year as the pastor of this busy church, and my twenty-first year in "the business." Most of the professional literature suggests a sabbatical for every seventh year of ministry. Until now, I've never had the courage to request one. Neither have I have taken self-care this seriously.

In coming posts, I'll reflect on my preparations for this gift of time. From time to time, I'll share some of the thoughts and decisions that have already begun to swirl around.