129.10

In order to encourage a healthy pastoral ministry and strong spiritual life of the pastor, the church board, in consultation with the district superintendent, should provide a sabbatical leave for the pastor during each seventh consecutive year of service in one congregation. The timing and duration of the sabbatical shall be determined in consultation with the pastor, church board and district superintendent. It is strongly urged that the pastor’s salary continue in full and the church board provide for pulpit supply during the sabbatical period. This topic is to be addressed by the district superintendent as part of the church/pastoral review process that would come after year two and again in year six, once the viability of continuing the relationship has been established. Materials shall be developed and distributed by the Global Clergy Development office to guide local congregations in establishing and implementing a sabbatical leave policy and procedure. At the church board’s discretion, such a program may also be implemented for a member of the pastoral staff.

222.9

In order to encourage a healthy superintendency and the strong spiritual life of the district superintendent, the District Advisory Board, in consultation with the general superintendent in jurisdiction, should provide a sabbatical leave for the district superintendent during or after each seventh consecutive year of service to the district. During the sabbatical, the district superintendent’s salary and benefits will continue in full. The district superintendent shall work with the District Advisory Board to develop a proposal for the sabbatical including duration, personal development plan, and a plan to care for essential duties during the sabbatical period.

Index

For translating the index locators.