Come away or come apart

I have often heard friends of ministers encouraging them to "come away or come apart." They always used the model of Jesus who made it a consistent practice to call "time-out" and take breaks for physical and spiritual refreshment.

I am writing this as I come to the conclusion of one of those breaks. Honestly, there is a part of me that would like to stay here for a few more weeks. Although I enjoy my work, right now I am content to continue "time away." This also makes me hunger for my sabbatical planned for this summer. BCMD allows us one month every three years. These are genuine sabbaticals. Some choose to approach the time as study leave. Others just need to rest and let their minds catch up with their bodies!

Our churches that allow their ministers from three months up to six months actually have a better understanding of the purpose and value of ministerial sabbaticals.

I invite you to share your views and experiences with ministerial sabbaticals. I am confident that we can help one another here.