The Presbytery of San Jose recommends to the sessions of its churches that Ministers of the Word and Sacrament be granted a compensated sabbatical of at least three months after seven years of service to an individual church. Rationale A sabbatical will enable the minister to be renewed through the vital pursuit of continuing education, extended time spent in spiritual formation, and fresh mentoring by respected teachers. A sabbatical enables a minister to return to the responsibilities of the parish with new energy, spiritual vision and effectiveness.
Responsibilities Review the sabbatical time table and usage plan as submitted by the minister.
Serve as mediator in any concerns of session or minister relative to the sabbatical. Determine who will moderate the session in the minister's absence. Minister Responsibilities Bring the sabbatical proposal before the session at least in outline form a minimum of six months before the intended commencement of the sabbatical. Secure the approval of the session for the sabbatical proposal and work out the necessary coverage of pastoral and pulpit responsibilities. Assure the session of continued service to the church for at least one full year from the conclusion of the sabbatical.