Preparing for Sabbatical

A sabbatical can be a transformative season of rest, renewal, and discernment, but preparing for it takes intentional planning.  Preparing for Sabbatical is a workshop designed to offer practical guidance for those considering or preparing for this important season.

The workshop explores the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program, including who can apply, what the program funds, and how to navigate the application process. Participants will also receive practical guidance for preparing to step away from congregational leadership, including communicating with church leadership, preparing family and personal plans, establishing healthy boundaries, and helping a congregation understand the purpose and value of a sabbatical.

The conversation addresses preparing a congregation for a pastor’s absence and return, including incorporating sabbatical language into pastoral agreements, communicating the “why” of a sabbatical, sharing the sabbatical experience with the congregation, and finding a healthy rhythm for returning to pastoral leadership.

Most importantly, the workshop creates space to consider why sabbatical matters for clergy and how intentional boundaries before, during, and after a sabbatical can support healthy, sustainable pastoral leadership. This workshop is offered free through the DSF Collective. Workshop presenters: Rev. Alicia Speidel (DSF/PSR graduate, M.Div./2002), Rev. Dr. Marvin Lance Wiser (DSF/GTU graduate, Ph.D./2023), Rev. Jeanne Loveless (DSF/PSR graduate, M.Div./2003), Rev. Rebecca Littlejohn (DSF/PSR graduate, M.Div./2001), Rev. Dr. Leslie Carole Taylor (Lilly Endowment Clergy Grant recipient), Rev. Dr. Christy Newton (Executive Director, DSF)