In the summer of 2027, I will have a three-month sabbatical. The sabbatical leave is not intended to be a vacation, nor is it intended to be something routine. The sabbatical leave provides an opportunity for spiritual and physical renewal; for enrichment and spiritual growth; for study, travel, skill development or special projects; and a time for prayer, rest, and reflection. It is a gift to both the leader and to the community, providing an opportunity for new ideas, new possibilities, and the deepening of the life of each.
With the help of a sabbatical team, I am applying for a
grant from the Lilly Endowment. The
Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program asks, “What will make your heart sing?” This
question holds profound possibilities for the ministries of the pastor and the
congregation. It is not a guaranteed grant, but I am hopeful. I have a team of St. Mark folks who will be my
sabbatical committee. My team is Bob
Osolin, Mike Fager, Sandy Lindstrom, Pat Coffman, and Sharon Erickson. I am grateful for their support. They will help with the grant application and,
if I am rewarded the grant, the follow up report after my sabbatical.
If the grant is awarded from the Lilly Endowment Clergy
Renewal Program, I plan to go to Sweden and Germany. While I am there, I plan to visit the towns
where my ancestors lived, as well as other towns and cities. I will spend approximately 7 to 10 days in
each country. I have never been to
Sweden and it has been over 30 years since I have been to Germany. When I was in Germany, I didn’t get a chance
to visited the small town where my ancestors lived. I have always wanted to visit the places
where my ancestors lived to learn more about the culture and walk the grounds
they walked. I plan to take my family to
Germany.
If the grant is awarded, the funds go to St. Mark. The majority of the funds would cover the
cost of my sabbatical; however, a portion of the funds can cover the cost of
supply preachers so Pastor Chad is not preaching for 3 months straight. The funds can also cover the cost of a book
study or other activities the congregation can participate in that are related
to my sabbatical. I am looking for a
book that I will read while on sabbatical and St. Mark folks can read as well.
I am excited for the opportunity to travel to Sweden and
Germany. And I am grateful that St. Mark
has a sabbatical policy and offers their rostered ministers a time for rest and
renewal. The Lilly Endowment Clergy
Renewal Program will release the name of the recipients in August of 2026. Please pray for clarity and focus as the
sabbatical team and I work on the grant.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Katrina Steingraeber
No comments:
Post a Comment