PASTOR SABBATICALS
We partner with lead pastors for renewal through sabbatical funding.
General Information
for Pastor Sabbaticals
Pray
23 Project believes that prayer is an essential part of our partnership. Churches will not be planted and pastors will not endure ministry without prayer. At 23 Project, you will have an army of men and women who are regularly praying for you and your ministry.
Fund
- Up to $15,000
Support
- Access to 1 week at a lake house or mountain retreat in North Carolina, if desired.
- Assistance with sabbatical planning
- Coaching for pastor and elders
Requirements
- Acknowledges and agrees to Type of Churches.
- Sabbatical must be a minimum of 8 weeks, we suggest 12 weeks.
- Participate in coaching before and during sabbatical.
- Agree to other specifics listed in our Memorandum of Understanding.
- Lead pastor must have:
- Minimum of 10 years in ministry
- Minimum of 5 years at current church
Important Dates
for Pastoral Sabbaticals
Applications Open - Aug 1
Applications Submitted by Sept 15
Candidates Selected by Sept 23
Candidates Interviewed - Oct 23-24
A video “get acquainted” interview will be scheduled with you and your spouse during this week.
Recipients Chosen by Nov 15
Recipients Notified by Nov 19
Have A Question?
Check out our frequently asked questions below to find the answer you might be looking for.
If you still have additional questions, please contact us here.
Do I qualify as an applicant for this initiative?
A pastor sabbatical applicant should be the lead pastor of the church, have at least 10 years of ministry experience, and have pastored his current church for at least 5 years.
May I submit the application on behalf of my pastor?
What a kind thought! However, there are questions your pastor will need to answer. So encourage him to apply.
What happens after I submit my application?
We will notify you that we have received your application. There is an Applicant, Candidate and Recipient phase to our process. You will receive communication from us throughout each phase.
How will I know if I am selected?
You will receive communication from 23 Project throughout the vetting process.
I’ve never planned a sabbatical before, will 23 Project help me?
Great news! Yes, we will work with you and your church leadership to create a sabbatical that is a blessing to both you and your congregation.
Does 23 Project expect anything from me?
In addition to signing the Memorandum of Understanding, we believe that it would serve you and your congregation to write a summary of your sabbatical experience and share it with them upon your return (What did you learn? What did you do? etc). We would also love to receive a copy of your experience.
Is there a timeframe for taking the sabbatical?
Yes, your sabbatical will need to occur within the next calendar year of receiving the award.
Does my sabbatical have to be a certain length of time?
We suggest a minimum of 8 weeks; preferably 12 weeks for your sabbatical. We also require that you work with a sabbatical coach during your time away.
Can you help me secure a coach?
Yes! We have a sabbatical coach that we recommend and work with closely. If you choose a different coach, the funds you receive can be applied toward that cost.
Where is the mountain retreat located?
The mountain retreat is a home in the High Country of North Carolina. Our team will assist you in the travel arrangements if you choose to stay there.
Am I required to use the cabin in North Carolina?
No, but it is a beautiful respite from a busy world!
Will the funds be distributed to my church or directly to me?
The funds will be given to your church.
What can the balance of my sabbatical funds be used for?
These funds are meant to bless you and your family. We encourage you to use them to enhance your sabbatical.
I have some additional questions. Who may I contact?
Please contact us here with your questions.
