A Statement on Sabbatical Leave

Sabbatical leave is a privilege granted by a congregation to its pastor. It is an opportunity the congregation provides for its pastor to experience a renewal of oneself and of one's mission. It is a time for reflection, spiritual re-encounter, renewal and community.

A sabbatical leave is a plan developed by the Congregational Council and pastor. Although it may be a part of the call, it is usually developed after a pastor has been in the congregation for a number of years, often seven, and is the result of planning between the congregation and its pastor. It also involves a commitment by the pastor to remain in the call at least one year.

When a sabbatical is being considered, it is appropriate that the bishop be consulted. It may be useful for the pastor to consult with a colleague or nearby continuing educator to determine focus, goals, etc., whether a structured course or an informal type of growth opportunity will be undertaken, and/or whether a mentor will be used. The focus of the leave, timing and expected benefits are critical areas for joint planning. It is most useful in the pre-planning stage to determine specific expectations and the nature of a final report.

The usual sabbatical is of three to six months in duration, during which time the congregation is responsible for continuing the pastor's salary and benefits and funding the salary of the interim pastor. Any expenses relative to study or travel are the responsibility of the pastor. If a continuing education item is in the congregation's budget, this could be made available.

Experience has shown that it is most beneficial for the leave to be taken outside of the locale of the call. This protects the pastor from parish interruptions, allowing him or her the opportunity for a total experience of renewal and removing the concerns of pastoral coverage in his or her absence. The time of the sabbatical may provide the congregation an opportunity for growth (as opposed to maintaining status). Any change in focus and responsibility of lay leaders needs to be planned along with other aspects of the sabbatical.

The following are guidelines to assist the congregation and the pastor who are considering a sabbatical leave.

1. The pastor, in consultation with the Pastor-Parish Committee, will develop a proposal to include:
   1. A rationale for the sabbatical, including personal goals and potential value for the congregation.
   2. A detailed outline of the intended use of time.
   3. An outline of financial implications of the sabbatical.
   4. An indication of the use of vacation time during the sabbatical. At least one-half of the period normally granted as annual vacation should be so designated in sabbatical leaves of three to six months.
2. The proposal for the sabbatical leave should be presented to the governing body of the congregation not less than one year prior to the beginning of the leave.
3. Within six weeks of the completion of the leave, the pastor should present to the congregation and the bishop a detailed reflection of the experience of the sabbatical leave.

In response to a request from the bishop and following extensive research, the synod's Clergy Compensation-Mutual Ministry Committee prepared the above statement on sabbatical leave. Contact the synod office for more information. Posted 3-1-02.