Sabbatical FAQ
Q: Are you leaving forever?
A: Nope. Sabbaticals are for returning, not exiting. Our commitment to Father’s House hasn’t changed.
Q: Why now?
A: Because we’re healthy, the church is healthy, and sabbaticals work best when they’re proactive instead of reactive. Think oil change, not engine rebuild.
Q: Who’s going to preach?
A: We’ll have a mix of guest teachers, leaders from within Foursquare, and trusted voices from our community we believe will strengthen the church. It’s a great opportunity for the body to hear different perspectives and gifts.
Q: Will regular ministries continue?
A: Yes. Services, groups, kids, missions, prayer- our church keeps being church.
Q: Does the church still need my participation?
A: More than ever. Sabbatical is not a sabbatical from being part of the body. Your presence, service, prayer, giving, and hospitality matter.
Q: Will there be changes when you get back?
A: Probably! Healthy rest often brings clarity, creativity, and vision. We expect good fruit, not abrupt pivots or personality swaps.
Q: Is this paid or unpaid?
A: Yes, Sabbaticals are a standard part of pastoral compensation in many churches and professions because they strengthen long-term faithfulness and leadership health. Our church counsel has graciously approved and planned for these finances.
Q: What are the dates and why this long?
A: We will be gone June 29- Sept 19. Twelve weeks is a common length for ministry sabbaticals. Research, experience, and pastoral best practices show that real renewal takes more than a quick nap and weekend retreat. We have also prayed and sought much counsel about the length we’ll be gone.
Q: Who made this decision?
A: We’ve been planning with our council and leaders for quite some time to ensure this is wise, healthy, and well-timed for the church. Sabbaticals were woven into our hiring process, and the counsel will be working on an official Fathers House Sabbatical policy later this year.
Q: How can our church family support this?
A: Pray, engage, stay steady, and let this be a season of empowerment rather than pause. We truly did not frame our theme of Empowerment around our upcoming Sabbatical, but it’s so fitting and like the Spirit to work all things into what he is doing.
Q: Who is going to cover all the things you do while you are gone?
A: We have a strategic plan in place to work through every facet of our responsibilities. As things are confirmed, we will make this information available to you through a variety of avenues. Emails, our church website, postings on the back wall of church, announcements from up front, and information in the office will help keep everyone informed and on the same page.