Living a Deeply Rooted Life

After a seminar on pastoral health at the General Assembly, the Session developed a sabbatical policy to proactively promote the long-term health of our pastoral staff. The idea of giving pastors extended time away is grounded in the biblical teaching of the Sabbath.

The theme was developed by Pastor Dan and a team of people from Redeemer as part of a grant proposal for the 2023 National Clergy Renewal Program funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. which Pastor Dan was awarded. The grant’s purpose is to provide experiences to foster renewal for pastors. The theme that provided direction for Pastor Dan’s time and for our congregational activities is “A Deeply Rooted Life: Rooted in Christ, Relationships, and History.”

One major piece of the sabbatical will be an extended time traveling in England and Scotland with Debbi and AnGrace experiencing new places and visiting various church history sites. The end of the trip will slow down allowing time to be still, read, talk, and go for long walks. The rest of the summer will include a beach vacation with all his kids and grandkids, time with a mentor, hiking with old friends, and visiting with some of his siblings. After getting AnGrace settled in at college, Dan and Debbi will travel to California to see the redwoods in Humboldt National Forest, enjoying God’s creation and contemplating the next season of life as empty nesters. Throughout the sabbatical, Dan will be engaged with a sabbatical coach to help encourage renewal and reflection.

While there will be some vacation time built into the summer, this is not merely an extended vacation. The difference between a vacation and a sabbatical is based on intent. A vacation is intended purely for relaxation and refreshment while a sabbatical is designed to include activities to renew a pastor’s heart for long-term ministry. A vacation is recreation; a sabbatical is focused renewal.

While on sabbatical, Pastor Dan will not be answering e-mails, texts, or phone calls. We want to assure you that the leadership of our church is committed to providing continued care and support for our congregation. We believe that the first level of care always begins in close relationships, whether it's within your small group, community group, or Bible study. In addition, each member has a designated shepherding elder who is available to offer pastoral care and support as needed. If any of you have questions, concerns, or simply need someone to pray with you, Ross, Garrett, the elders, and the deacons are here to walk alongside you through life's joys and challenges.