The word sabbatical comes from the Hebrew word “Sabat” (Sabbath), a day set aside for rest and worship. The practice of Sabbatical is based on the Biblical practice of shmita mandated by the Torah, which requires farmers to take a year-long break from working the fields every seven years.
Sabbatical is offered to ministers to encourage rest, to offer space for quiet reflection, and to allow time for recovery from the difficult and demanding job of being a spiritual leader.
The year 2023 is a perfect time for Reverend Jennifer to step away and take her sabbatical. We’re in the midst of the Forge our Future Campaign to build the church’s reserves and increase our capacity to offer services and help our community. Our city, state, and world face big challenges in the years ahead, and as UU’s, we will be called to act and respond. I’m grateful we can give Jennifer this opportunity to rest and build her reserves so we can work together to do big things when she gets back, for we will be called to do so.
Laura Maker, Sabbatical Team