Season 18: Episode 5 | What about the Congregation? How Everyone Benefits from a Pastor’s Sabbatical
We are wrapping up our sabbatical season by turning our attention to the congregation; how does a congregation benefit from a pastor’s sabbatical. Ruth sits down with her brother, Pastor Jonathan Haley, to discuss the thoughtful and intentional ways he included his congregation in his sabbatical planning, how he stayed connected with them and how they, together, wrapped up the entire experience.
Then, Ruth shares some final thoughts about sabbatical, her takeaways from her conversations this season and things to think about as you go forward with the idea of a sabbatical. Finally, Ruth closes with a meditation inspired by Psalm 46:10 by Henri Nouwen.
Jonathan Haley — also known as Taylor — is a husband, father, pastor and endurance athlete. Jonathan was a part of the first Transforming Community, and has served numerous communities, as well as served on the board of directors for the Transforming Center. Jonathan earned his D.Min. from McCormick Seminary, where he researched and reflected on how a pastor’s spiritual practices shape a congregation. In 2018 he enjoyed a 3-month renewal leave, during which he biked across the country, with a personal and congregational focus on “experiencing our bodies as God’s gift to us.” He has served First Presbyterian Church in La Crosse, Wisconsin as pastor/head of staff for 20 years.
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Listen to other episodes from Season 18 Access past podcast seasons
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You can also order the Sabbath Journal, meant to accompany you on your sabbath journey and give you space to share what your soul wants to say to God.
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Music Credit:
Kingdom Come by Aaron Niequist
Springs of Living Water from Transforming Center Resource Music in Solitude
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