Sabbatical Guidelines

Today, the role of pastor is truly under pressure from many sides, probably more than at any other time in history.  The stress that accompanies a ministry calling can have a substantial negative effect on those in this caring profession.  Since over 40 percent of pastors acknowledge having high stress levels at least once or twice a week, and 12 percent almost every day, there is a need to bring healing, hope and renewal to those called ‘pastor.’    Many of the responsibilities they assume are emotionally and spiritually draining.

Sabbaticals offer leaders a change of pace, a chance to slow their activity level, even a complete rest long enough to be strengthened and healed.  That time away is most effective when it is included in a compensation agreement, when it is required by a caring congregation.  Many ministers are facing burnout, yet they are reluctant to make that fact known even to their own leadership team, let alone the congregation.

Here is an excellent article from Focus on the Family outlining the need, the plan and the policy regarding a sabbatical.

Vinia of the Missionary Church has some good resources, too.