We’ve not done this before so it’s inevitable that some questions need answering. Here are some FAQ’s:
1 What does sabbatical mean?
The concept of sabbatical is rooted in the idea of “Sabbath” or rest. It’s about ceasing from the normal day to day responsibility of leadership to enable an extended time for prayer, reflection and study. It’s a proactive step for us and for the congregation we serve. We’ve both got a spiritual director to assist in our reflection before, during and after the sabbatical. We’re heading off on the 1st of June, and we’ll be returning to work on 1st of September.
2 Why are you going on sabbatical at this time?
We planted the church in 2018 and during the last 7 years of establishing it we have seen huge change and growth and even a global pandemic. So we’ve also chosen time because we’re confident of the momentum, health and vitality of the church and leadership team. After conversations with the trustees we are in agreement that this is the right time for us and the church.
3 What's planned for church?
This has been in the planning stages for many months so we’ve put considerable thought into the leadership and detail of the next term. We can leave knowing that everything is in good hands in our absence. The teaching themes and preachers for the next few months are all confirmed and we will see the return of beach church in the Summer months!
4 Can people still contact you?
This is a unique time for us to step back from all day-to-day contact and communication so we can fully engage in this time of rest, prayer and reflection. We’d ask that you don’t contact us directly over this time. All our normal communication channels will not be monitored for example emails.
5 When you are away who’s in charge?
Andy and Luisa Hatherly have accepted the roles of Associate Pastors of Falmouth Vineyard and they will be closely supported by the whole staff team, as well as the Trustees in our absence. We are grateful that we can confidently enter this sabbatical because of our deep trust in the wonderful team of staff and small group leaders. They will continue to work together to serve and lead Falmouth Vineyard during our absence. For many this will come as no surprise as we have seen Andy and Luisa take a greater role within the leadership of the church.
6 Will anything change about our church while you are away?
In many ways nothing will change. You'll continue to gather for worship in the Stannary and small groups will continue as normal. Please do introduce us to newfound friends on our return! The only change is we won’t physically be amongst you for the three months. The same staff and team members who lead Sunday services will continue to be on hand each week.
7 What do I do if I hit a problem or I become aware of one?
We’re so glad that we’re not limited by a 'pastor centric' model of Church. The gifts of so many add to the health of our community. Small Groups Communities remain the first point of contact for emergencies or moments where help is needed. Small Group leaders refer complex situations to pastoral staff. That’s our normal pattern and it will remain that way for the sabbatical period.
The office based team meet weekly to pray, review the week and respond to needs that arise.
8 What if there is a real emergency?
Ruth and I have never made significant decisions in isolation. We’ve valued the wisdom of colleagues, trustees, ‘elders' and overseers outside the Church. All these people are on hand during this time. If something complex needs attention, our staff and trustees have access to the Vineyard Area Leaders and to members of the Vineyard Leadership Group. The Trustees team will continue to meet monthly with Alistair Lockwood as the chair of this team. Our colleagues have our schedule and contact details throughout the time of our sabbatical and they are empowered to communicate with us if they feel it absolutely necessary.
9 How can I best support the church at this time?
Being present, prayerfully engaged and supportive of the leaders is the most helpful thing you can do. The health of this church is maintained by the consistent choices we all make to prefer one another, serve one another, and pray for one another. This is a moment for our whole community to grow.
10 How can we pray for you while you are on sabbatical?
Pray that we become still enough to hear everything that Jesus wants to say to us. The invitation to know Christ and become more like Him is offered to us all in every season of life. We want to grow as leaders so the next decade of ministry in this church and beyond it is as fruitful as possible.