The “Rationale" -- Beginning Thoughts.

At our last meeting we brought together our individual thoughts on the “rationale” for the sabbatical. We are convinced that the sabbatical will be beneficial for Pastor Lance and the congregation. They will be working on different sides of the same coin (so to speak).
Although the ideas were stated differently, they all pointed to a similar theme: the need for leadership development for the church and a need for Lance to acquire some management/delegation skills.

There was discussion about what needs to happen at the church, in terms of specifics - and the conversation kept coming back to developing leaders in the church; developing a sense of ownership and responsibility in the elders; a sense that the ball is in their court and they need to run with it; of starting the ball rolling rather than waiting until someone else starts it.

At the church leadership retreat in March, there will be a time to discuss the sabbatical, particularly the following two questions:
1) What would be the benefit of Lance being gone for a time - both for the church and for Lance?
2) What are your main concerns about Lance being gone on sabbatical? It was suggested that the second question, particularly, be given ahead of time and that the responses be written. Someone could then compile the concerns and they could address them at a later time in the retreat (or at an additional gathering). This would help keep the conversation within a reasonable time frame.