Rules of Disengagement

In just over a week I will be leaving on sabbatical. At last month's session meeting, we approved a sabbatical covenant for this time. I've mentioned to a number of people that it felt like drawing up rules of disengagement, and I believe it is healthy to put these things in writing before departure.

Here's the covenant we agreed upon:

Throughout Scripture, from Genesis’ beginnings to Jesus’ ministry and the church’s witness, accounts of holy activity are clearly set apart by rest, quiet places, and time for restoration. God has given us, God’s people, the Sabbath pattern as a time of renewal, a time to be reminded of whose we are and what we are called to do, a time of rest that refreshes us for faithful living.

It is a gift given to the congregation…a time for leaders to step forward and share their gifts with the community in new ways. It is also a gift given to the pastor…a time to be renewed for ministry and strengthened in their sense of call.

First Presbyterian Church of Birmingham and the Rev. Drew Henry enter this sabbatical covenant as they prepare to begin their seventh year of ministry together. Drew will be on sabbatical during the months of April, May and June of 2008. This leave is not just a reward for longevity of service and commitment, but is an extended period away from normal responsibilities for renewal through personal growth, spiritual formation and continued professional development.

During this time, the church will release Drew from all pastoral duties and responsibilities. Drew commits not to assume regular pastoral duties and responsibilities while on sabbatical.

During his sabbatical, the church will continue Drew’s full salary and benefits. Drew commits to using the Sabbatical Grant for Pastoral Leaders he was awarded from the Louisville Institute to pursue this season of prayer, study, and renewal following the proposal he submitted for this grant.

Upon return, Drew commits to continuing serving First Presbyterian Church for at least four times the length of the sabbatical leave (one year) as stated in our Sabbatical Policy.

While he is on sabbatical, Drew will make occasional posts to the sabbatical blog he has prepared (www.tableofwelcome.org) as a means of staying connected to the congregation and sharing some sabbatical reflections. Drew welcomes and would appreciate comments regarding any posts he makes, and he commits not to respond to any posted comments while he is on sabbatical.

Drew commits not to check his church email or voicemail while on sabbatical, and he commits not to discuss the ongoing work of the church during this time with members, colleagues or staff.

In the case it is deemed necessary to communicate with Drew while he is on sabbatical, Drew will provide our church administrator, Debbie Hamrick, with appropriate contact information. Debbie will personally contact Drew if and when any communication is necessary.

Upon return from his sabbatical, Drew will prepare and submit a written summary to the Session, Committee on Ministry and the Louisville Institute. He will also make time to share with the congregation his sabbatical journey and reflections.

Finally, I, Drew, am grateful for this sabbatical gift and the opportunity to be in ministry with you the people of First Presbyterian Church. I will pray for you and the church while I am away, and I ask you to pray for me and our family during this time of sabbatical.

Gracious God, pour out your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these your gifts of bread and wine.

Peace...