When I was considering my mid-life transition into the ministry, the best advice I got was this, “Take enough time away from people that you have something to give them when you’re with them.” That’s proven to be more true than I could have possibly known.
But it’s harder than it sounds! There are lots of reasons for not pacing ourselves, practicing sabbath, taking breaks. But that’s dangerous territory, spiritually-speaking. Service that never ceases can morph into the belief that we are indispensable. Our eagerness to be thought reliable can turn us people-pleasing ministers into what Carlisle Marney wisely termed: “quivering masses of availability.” Ouch!
First Baptist has always aspired to “best practices” in all the areas of ministry, and one of those commitments is to the provision of sabbaticals and professional development opportunities for the ministers. In deep gratitude for that gift, I am planning to take the sabbatical you have afforded me this fall starting on Monday, September 2, and returning on Saturday, November 2.
The idea behind our sabbaticals is not that we do nothing, but that we do something else that is enriching and rejuvenating. My plan to spend this time doing what I have no time to do week-to-week: taking the many ideas and insights inspired by our life together and writing about them in song, prose and poetry, so that I “have something to give you when I’m back with you.”
Sabbaticals should serve as reminders that we ministers are only facilitators of the ministry that each of you must do for us to truly be the church. Carrying the concerns you’ve shared with me, as I do, it will be hard to step away, honestly. But I hope you will say a prayer for me as I attempt—for all our sakes—to practice what I preach!
—Kyle Matthews, Minister of Pastoral Care
Offering our ministers sabbatical leave is crucial for their health, well-being and longevity. I am grateful that First Baptist supports this important clergy care initiative. However, it may leave you wondering who will cover for Kyle during his absence.
Our ministerial staff already has an on-call rotation. During Kyle’s sabbatical, the on-call minister for each week will take the lead on all pastoral care needs. This includes responding to emergencies, managing ongoing pastoral duties during the workday, and working closely with bereaved families to plan and conduct funerals, ensuring they receive the compassionate support and guidance they need during such difficult times. You can reach the minister on call by calling the church office at 864-233-2527 or emailing pastoral.care@firstbaptistgreenville.com. If calling the office after hours, press the number “2” for “Pastoral Care Emergencies. The staff minister on call will respond to your message.
—Carol McEntyre, Senior Minister