LEADERSHIP MATTERS by Roger A. Yancey, D.Min.
I was grateful to have completed in June, the Sabbatical our Association provides to full-time Ministry Staff upon their completion of every 7 years of consecutive service to the TEBA. Our policy reads in part, “the purpose of sabbatical leave is to benefit both the association and the full-time ministry staff. It is intended to be a period of spiritual refreshment and equipping to further the full-time ministry staff’s expertise and the mission of the Tryon Evergreen Baptist Association.” It is also required that “Upon completion of the Sabbatical, a report is to be provided to the Administrative Team and the Executive Board.”
A Sabbatical Plan was approved by the Administrative Team with the general focus on “Balcony Time” for me to rest and reflect on the ministry of the TEBA and the focus of my role as the Executive Director. Also, it was intended to be a time to envision the future as we enter this next season of ministry. The timing of the Sabbatical proved to be a blessing with the announced transition of Darrell Ingram, our Associate DOM, into the role of Missions Minister for one of our member churches, West Conroe Baptist Church, beginning in July. This staff transition has added to this becoming a significant season of change within the TEBA.
Read the full Sabbatical Report
(Click to download PDF)
In Kingdom service,
Executive Director ~ AMS
Through the generosity of the Lanier Foundation, you too can experience the amazing Lanier Library and Learning Center both in Houston and in the United Kingdom.
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CO-VOCATIONAL SABBATICAL ASSISTANCE BASICS
Postscript: The TEBA has resources we can provide to churches on how to create a Sabbatical Policy which aligns with the needs of the minister and the church. Also, we are highly committed to the ministry of co-vocational pastors within our Association and have financial resources to assist them in having a Sabbatical.
Co-Vocational Pastors who qualify may be given up to $1,500 in Sabbatical Assistance. The award includes funding to allow the pastor to not have church responsibilities for up to one month. This award provides for weekly Pulpit Supply, Pastoral Care for the church on a limited basis, and a week away at an area retreat center. The TEBA will also be available to provide support to the church. Additional elements such as training and renewal events may be included as well. Co-Vocational Pastors who serve as the primary minister of their church are qualified to take part by fulfilling the following criteria:
- Serving as primary minister for 5 years + of continuous service in a TEBA church.
- Submit an application for participation in the Co-Vocational Pastor Sabbatical Program.
- Initiates the creation of a Sabbatical Plan in cooperation with the Church Leadership and the TEBA.
- Commits to the Sabbatical Covenant.
