Jesus took himself apart often in his ministry; to pray, to be with God, to be renewed. The bishops’ sponsored Clergy Sabbatical Program seeks to ensure that clergy in the Diocese of Massachusetts have an opportunity for a time of Sabbath; for a renewal of spirit and a reaffirmation of life with God. A sabbatical can offer opportunities for creativity and discovery for both the clergy person and the congregation.

All clergy canonically resident in the Diocese of Massachusetts who have been in active, ordained ministry for a minimum of 10 years and in their current parish for a minimum of 5 years are eligible to apply. Clergy who are interested in engaging in a process of communal/ collegial discernment, whose parish is also willing to engage in such a process and who are not able to fund fully a sabbatical together are invited to apply.

For more information about the Clergy Sabbatical Program, download the attached document or contact the
Rev. Maggie Geller, 617-482-4826 ext 351, mgeller [at] diomass [dot] org.

The attached PDF document contains:

• General information about the program
• Questions for reflection by clergy and congregations
• Application part I - Vestry Letter of Support
• Application part II - Clergy Application
• Working benefits payment agreement

Application deadlines for funding for sabbaticals planned in 2009:

• Part I. Vestry Letter of Support due February 28, 2008
• Part II: Clergy Sabbatical Application due May 31, 2008

Notice of approval will be by July 1, 2008.

Attachment	Size
Clergy Sabbatical Application for 2008-9	43.19 KB