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Faqs

How can I apply for a cohort? 

Use this application link to apply for a cohort.  The link is only active from August 15th through October 15th.

Why does my pastor need a sabbatical? Part 1 – Work Pressure

Watch this short video to hear Rev. Jon Medlock provide insight from his research and learn why pastors need support for sabbaticals to bolster their wellbeing. For a full transcript of the video, click here. 

Why does my pastor need a sabbatical? Part 2 – Relational Pressure

Watch this short video to hear Rev. Jon Medlock provide more insight from his research and learn why pastors need support for sabbaticals to bolster their wellbeing. For a full transcript of the video, click here. 

We already give our pastor vacation time. Is a sabbatical something different?

Yes — while vacations provide short-term rest and time away, a sabbatical is a longer, intentional season designed for deep renewal, reflection, and disconnection from the ongoing demands of pastoral ministry. Watch this short video as Rev. Jon Medlock explains the...

What if our pastor goes on sabbatical and never comes back?

One concern we often hear from churches is the fear that if their pastor goes on sabbatical, he might not return. Watch this short video as Rev. Jon Medlock shares practical ways churches can build regular rhythms of sabbatical rest into their pastor's call package...

How can the church grow while the pastor is away?

We believe that when a pastor leaves for a sabbatical, the Lord is also providing a unique opportunity for the church to learn and grow. Watch this short video from Rev. Jon Medlock to learn how the church staff and congregants can grow even while their pastor is away...

Why is a sabbatical important?

The pastoral vocation is uniquely challenging. Work such as sermon preparation, preaching, teaching, counseling, and day-to-day administrative oversight of the church are difficult and time-consuming enough. But pastors bear the additional burden of being “always on.”...

How can I access all of the FAQs on sabbaticals?

A PDF version is available for download here. It includes all the information covered in the videos for easy, readable access. A full video of all the FAQs combined can be watched here and below. 

Who can participate in a cohort?

Age and stage are important for grouping pastors in a cohort. We want you to be in a cohort with other pastors who understand your experience without you needing to explain it to them. They get you. This round of cohorts is open to Senior/Lead Pastors and Solo Pastors.

How long are the pastoral cohorts?

There is a two-year commitment. But we desire that the Lord Jesus would knit these cohorts together so that they cannot think of do gospel ministry apart from this band of brothers.