In 2005, after six years of ministry with you at Capitol Hill, I was blessed with a two-month sabbatical. Retired Disciple pastor, Dr. Fred Gee, served you during this time as I took two classes, traveled to places that had been sacred to my Christian development, and enjoyed rest, renewal, and rejuvenation.
Now, in 2014, it is time to prepare for a three-month sabbatical in 2015, working closely with the Pastoral Relations Committee and congregation. Between now and April 9, we will be working together to prepare the materials to apply for a grant through the Lilly Endowment to underwrite the cost. The Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment – a private philanthropic foundation – is devoted to the causes of religion, education and community development.
The Lilly Endowment National Clergy Renewal Program seeks to strengthen Christian congregations by providing opportunities for pastors to step away briefly from the persistent obligations of daily congregational life and to engage in a period of renewal and reflection. Renewal periods are not vacations, but times for intentional exploration and reflection, for regaining the enthusiasm and creativity for ministry.
The Grants Program, administered through Christian Theological Seminary, will provide grants of up to $50,000 directly to congregations for the support of a renewal program for their ordained pastor. Up to $15,000 of the grant may be used to help the congregation fulfill pastoral duties during the pastor’s absence and/or to support activities that enable the congregation as a whole to be renewed in its ministry.
We will work together to design a specific program and apply for this grant. Together we will agree on the three-month period of time, what activities will be involved, what congregational renewal activities will take place during my absence, and how we will share our experiences and insights with one another when the renewal leave is completed.
We will submit our proposal to Christian Theological Seminary for their assessment and determination of an appropriate grant for our congregation. Proposals are submitted in early April and recipients will be notified in late August.
This is an exciting adventure for us to embark upon. We will learn and grow together over the coming months. I look forward to the journey with you as together we explore renewed ministry for both myself and the congregation.
Blessings,
Candice
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