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As pastors we all know the importance of Sabbath. For some, our Sabbath is Monday while others prefer Friday or other days of the week (except Sunday =) ). We’re always on call, of course. But it’s important for us to observe a regular Sabbath. Genesis 2:1-3 says “And on the seventh day God finished all the work he had done, and God rested on the seventh day from all the work he had done (period).” Amen?? God rested on the seventh day! Are you resting on your chosen seventh day?
Some of us have a real “go, go” personality as we strive to immediately address every call and issue that comes to our attention. Without Sabbath, we tend to run down. Perhaps as you read this letter, you are feeling a bit tired and weary. If so, prayers for rest and relief go out to you. Jesus said, “Come to me all you who are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Resting in Jesus includes physical and emotional rest too!
Our District Superintendent is pastor to us pastors, and sometimes as we address certain congregational and denominational issues, he is pastor to our congregations as well. Like us, Anthony has a heavy workload during the week and is also preaching, meeting, and worshiping on Sundays. It stands to reason, Anthony should be able to have a regular Sabbath just as we do.
Recently, Anthony developed a serious health issue due in part to his very busy schedule and desire to quickly address church matters as they come up. His serving orientation leads him to perhaps be too accessible and available. He is also subject to the common pastoral fear of being labeled unresponsive. He has often had to skip or shorten his Sabbath, which includes spending time with Sheila in order to address the felt needs of his parish.
It goes without saying that Anthony needs to be able to observe a regular Sabbath. He desires for Friday to be his Sabbath day.
Each one of us needs to help our congregations understand the value of Sabbath. We all have a need to balance work with personal care. Anthony is no exception and we and our churches are his parish. This letter is originating from a recent meeting of the District Committee on Superintendence. It is intended to provide clarity and establish a Friday Sabbath for Anthony. We hope it also reminds you of your need to value your Sabbath rest.
Unless there is a Saturday event Anthony is compelled to attend, it stands to reason he should have this weekend day for rest and recovery as well. That being the case, he would still want to be contacted in the case of extreme circumstances, but otherwise, we need to allow him the rest, recovery and family time he needs. As the DCOS has communicated this with you, please share this message, especially to members of your congregations who may feel there should be no rest for pastors or district superintendents. We appreciate your understanding and please make sure you are getting the Sabbath rest you need!
God’s Peace and Rest to you,
Irvin Plowden, Jr., Chair, DCOS
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