2023 Clergy Renewal Sabbatical

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Pastor Webb, in conjunction with the Congregation Council, has been working diligently to prepare for the 2023 Clergy Renewal Sabbatical. Through a combination of research, thoughtful discussion, and prayers for guidance, a proposal for the sabbatical has been created and was approved by the Council in December. As was agreed upon in his Letter of Call to Holy Trinity, Pastor Webb will take a sabbatical this summer, beginning Monday, June 5 through Thursday, August 31. The sabbatical will follow the North Carolina Synod Assembly, scheduled for June 2-3 in Greensboro. A worship send-off and luncheon are planned for Pastor Webb on Trinity Sunday, June 4.

“Though I will most certainly miss my Holy Trinity family, I am looking forward to resting with God, strengthening relationships with my family, and practicing better self-care,” said Pastor Webb. “I am especially excited about the many learning opportunities my sabbatical will provide including researching transformational initiatives and visiting other congregations to witness, firsthand, their approaches to new ministry programs.” 

The theme for Pastor Webb’s sabbatical is “Fishing for People,” based on Mark 1:14-20. Jesus proclaims the good news that God’s time (kairos) and kingdom have intersected with our time and our world. Jesus calls his first disciples (fisherman) to follow him so he can teach and train them to catch the hearts of people and reel them into a closer relationship with God. 

Outlined in the sabbatical are educational goals focusing on the research of ministry initiatives to help Holy Trinity realize our Vision 2025 plan; personal wellness goals focusing on spiritual, emotional, and physical care and development; and recreational goals focusing on relaxation and renewal through exploring new places and experiencing new things. “In alignment with the theme, I will be fishing for trout in Yellowstone National Park,” shared Pastor Webb. “I’m looking forward to breathing in the fresh air, enjoying nature, and just sitting with God. As excited as I am to enjoy the many components of my sabbatical, I am just as excited to return to Holy Trinity and share all that I have learned. I hope to come back with a well-rested body and spirit, sense of clarity and peace, heightened energy and enthusiasm, and a renewed faith to continue our important ministry here at Holy Trinity.” During his sabbatical, Pastor Webb will be keeping a journal and sabbatical blog in an effort to share the entirety and depth of his experience.

“The purpose of a sabbatical is to allow pastors time away to rest and reflect on their faith,” explained Kimberly Vegter, 2022 Council President. “Pastor Webb and Janine work so hard for Holy Trinity, dedicating not only their time but their lives to our church and congregation family. It is our hope that they will return to our ministry refreshed and restored, with renewed faith and revitalized energy to serve God and our congregation.” Kimberly emphasized that, included within the sabbatical, are congregational goals:  to support and pray for Pastor Webb and his family during this important phase of his ministry. While Pastor Webb is away, Pastor Graf will be leading our congregation along with our new Associate Pastor. “We are hopeful that our new Associate Pastor will be in place by that time and that the congregation will have the opportunity to welcome and connect with this individual during the sabbatical,” added Kimberly.

“I am beyond grateful for this opportunity that Holy Trinity has granted me,” said Pastor Webb. “I recognize this as a unique chance to grow and learn, and I look forward to what God has planned for me during this special time.” More information about the sabbatical including the specific goals and itinerary will be shared with the congregation in the weeks to come. 

Financial donations, hotel points, frequent flier miles, or the use of vacation homes to support Pastor Webb and his family during his sabbatical are welcome and appreciated. Contact Pastor Webb if you have resources to share or, to make a financial donation, contact Denise Moose.