Fr. Ken will be on sabbatical from June 1 to September 30, 2025, in collaboration with the Wardens and Vestry.
The word sabbatical has its roots in the biblical concept of Sabbath (meaning “to rest” or “to cease”). Sabbath keeping is purposely setting aside time that God consecrates and makes holy, as God did on the seventh day. (Genesis 2:3)
Sabbatical leave is a time for pastors to shift gears to rest, disengage, study, reflect, and travel to return and minister among us, refreshed and renewed in body, mind, and spirit. (Note: It is NOT a time for routine work, mid-career assessment, job search, retirement planning, or terminal leave.)
Fr. Ken’s letter of agreement with St. James specifies that he will take a sabbatical every three to six years. In May 2025, Ken will have completed seven years of serving with us.
A sabbatical is more than taking leave from meetings, budgets, sermons, and people in need. It is a time for Fr. Ken to receive spiritual nourishment and a chance to gain perspective and deepen his relationship with God, himself, and his family – it is a season of spiritual growth. This special time will also be a season of growth and renewal for our congregation.
