Sabbatical Leave Policy

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YATES BAPTIST CHURCH

SABBATICAL LEAVE POLICY

(Adopted April 13, 2005)

PURPOSE

Yates Baptist Church recognizes the importance of sabbatical leave as an investment in the renewal, growth, and continued effectiveness of its ministerial staff. Sabbaticals provide opportunities for spiritual enrichment, study, personal reflection, and professional development that strengthen both the individual and the congregation.

ELIGIBILITY

Ministerial staff members who have completed seven (7) years of full-time continuous service to Yates Baptist Church are eligible to apply for sabbatical leave.

LENGTH OF LEAVE

A sabbatical leave of up to three (3) consecutive months may be granted. The leave period must be approved in advance and coordinated to ensure appropriate staff coverage during the absence.

COMPENSATION

The ministerial staff member shall receive full salary and benefits during the approved sabbatical period.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  1. A written sabbatical proposal shall be submitted to the Personnel Committee at least six (6) months prior to the requested start date.
  2. The proposal should include:

– The proposed dates of leave, – The purpose and objectives of the sabbatical, – A general outline of planned activities or study, and – An explanation of how the experience will benefit both the minister and the church.

  1. The Personnel Committee shall review the proposal and make a recommendation to the Church Council and congregation for approval.

CONTINUITY OF MINISTRY

The Personnel Committee, in consultation with the ministerial staff, will make arrangements for coverage of responsibilities during the sabbatical period.

POST-SABBATICAL EXPECTATIONS

  1. The ministerial staff member will provide a written report to the Personnel Committee and Church Council within sixty (60) days of return.
  2. The minister may also be invited to share experiences and insights with the congregation.

FREQUENCY

Sabbatical leave may be granted no more than once every seven (7) years of continuous full-time service.

FUNDING

Sabbatical-related expenses beyond normal compensation (e.g., travel, lodging, study costs) are the responsibility of the minister unless otherwise approved by the Personnel Committee or supported through designated funds.

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