Summer Sabbatical & Renewal

Holy Trinity provides our pastors with a paid sabbatical after every five years of service. The sabbatical is an opportunity for growth and renewal not only for the pastor but for the congregation. Pastor Mike’s plans for a 2020 sabbatical were disrupted as Covid-19 limited travel and gatherings—core components of his plans. Fortunately, the planned sabbatical now has become possible and summer 2021 will be filled with both clergy and congregational renewal.

Pastor Mike’s renewal themes reflect his passions for food and fellowship. Related activities will meet not only his personal need for rejuvenation but address the congregation’s need to bring old and new members together to build relationships and grow in their understanding and appreciation of the value of food and fellowship in creating a vibrant and supportive community. While Pastor Mike explores new territory through summer travel, learning, and culinary adventures, our congregation will also be exploring new territory through a special discussion group, outdoor gatherings for meals, and opportunities for individualized renewal.

How is the renewal program being funded?

Holy Trinity was blessed to be awarded a Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program grant that is funding many aspects of Pastor Mike’s sabbatical plan as well as the special programs and activities being provided for congregational renewal this summer. The Lilly Endowment program was established to enable pastors to step away from the persistent obligations of daily parish life so that there is time and energy for intentional exploration and reflection, drinking again from God’s life-giving waters, and enjoy activities that will foster renewed enthusiasm and creativity for ministry. But the Lilly program also emphasizes and supports pastoral sabbaticals as an opportunity for complimentary congregational reflection and renewal during the pastor’s absence. Visit the Endowment website to learn more.