Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Sabbatical Partners
Before applying, take a few minutes to review the expectations of this sabbatical partnership with 23 Project.
Why This Matters
Clear Commitments Make for Healthy Partnerships
We partner with pastors for one reason: the advancement of the gospel. Healthy partnerships require clarity on both sides — what's being asked and what's being offered. This page is designed to lay that out plainly, in one place, before you begin the application process. Our goal is simple: that you and your family can move forward with confidence, knowing exactly what this partnership involves.
What 23 Project Commits To
Our Promise to You
-
We Pray
Our prayer team lifts up you, your family, and your church by name as you prepare for and walk through your sabbatical.
-
We Fund
Up to $15,000 granted to your church to make a real sabbatical possible — not just time off, but room to breathe.
-
We Support
Seven sabbatical coaching sessions with Brian Lowe — covered by 23 Project — before, during, and after your time away.
What You Commit To
Your Part of the Partnership
A partnership asks something of both sides. Here is what we are asking of you over the course of the sabbatical.
Stewardship
How the Funds Are Used
- Use grant funds for expenses according to your sabbatical plan.
- Provide receipts of expenditures to your church.
- Through your church, furnish 23 Project a written report of sabbatical expenses within 60 days of your return.
Formation & Care
Being in the Work with Us
- Schedule a sabbatical of at least eight weeks within one year of receiving the grant.
- Participate in sabbatical coaching sessions, including one session with your leadership team.
- Schedule our Executive Director, Brian Lowe, to preach at your church once during your sabbatical (at 23 Project's expense).
Oversight & Clarity
The People and Plan Around You
- Designate a key contact person on your Elder Team to walk through the sabbatical with us.
- Affirm agreement with our Types of Churches document.
Reporting & Visibility
Staying Connected
- Submit a written report at the end of your sabbatical to 23 Project and to your church.
- Be listed on the 23 Project website as a Pastoral Sabbatical recipient.
Before You Apply
Can You Say Yes to All of This?
If this reflects a path you, your family, and your church are ready to step into, we would love to hear from you. If you have any questions, reach out and let us know so you can have the clarity and confidence you need to take the next steps.