To Encourage Congregations to Establish Sabbatical Policy for Church Workers

Official Workbook overture source text

6-82 
To Encourage Congregations to Establish 
Sabbatical Policy for Church Workers 
WHEREAS, Church workers (rostered and lay) dedicate their lives 
to ministry, often facing significant demands that can lead to stress 
and burnout; and 
W
HEREAS, The biblical principle of rest and renewal, as seen in 
the Sabbath and the sabbatical year, underscores the importance of 
periodic restoration for those in ministry; and 
W
HEREAS, Sabbaticals provide church workers with 
opportunities for extended rest, personal renewal, and professional 
development, enhancing their effectiveness and longevity in 
ministry; and 
WHEREAS, Well-planned sabbaticals lead to increased creativity, 
refreshed vision, and overall well -being for church workers, 
benefiting both them and their congregations; and 
WHEREAS, A structured sabbatical policy, including eligibility 
criteria, duration, financial support, and reintegration planning, 
ensures the effectiveness and sustainability of such initiatives; 
therefore be it 
Resolved, That the Synod encourage every congregation to 
establish a formal sabbatical policy for church workers, outlining 
eligibility, duration, and guidelines for implementation; and be it 
further 
Resolved, That the Synod make available resources to assist in 
the creation of these policies. 
Board of Directors 
Eastern District 
2026 Convention Workbook
412 PAST ORAL MINISTRY AND SEMINARIES