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SABBATICAL
It is the desire of our directional elder team to do everything in our power to help create sustainable life rhythms that promote health in the lives of our leaders. In order to create this kind of culture and health in our leaders, we are sending Pastor Joey on a 90 day sabbatical from his role in our church body.
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"And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation." - Genesis 2:2-3
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We understand that when the word "sabbatical" is mentioned, many people will wonder what has happened to make this a need. The answer is simple, nothing. Pastoral ministry can take quite a toll on a person. Not only do we recognize this, we are dedicated to a culture that keeps our leaders and our church family healthy. These days in May, June, and July are for Pastor Joey to spend intentional time away from his day to day role as pastor of this church family for rest, renewal, and time with Christ.
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"And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat." - Mark 6:31
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This sabbatical has been planned for quite some time and, again, is not due to any specific need. During these 90 days, Pastor Joey will not be present at our Sunday Gatherings or responding to texts, emails, or calls. Any questions about this sabbatical can be sent to our Executive Pastor Joe or any of our elders.
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"For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” … So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his." - Hebrews 4:4; 9-10
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We know that our obedience to God's command to rest will promote health in both Pastor Joey's life and in the life of our church body.
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What to expect during May, June, and July
SUNDAY GATHERINGS
At our Sunday Gatherings you will hear from a few different voices from our pastoral and teaching team.
Pastor Joey will be attending worship with other churches each week.
DURING THE WEEK
Pastor Joey won't be in the office or attending most events. You may see him from time to time.
His day-to-day responsibilities will be managed by our elders and pastoral team.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
As a church family, we can support one another and our pastor during this with prayer and support. Below you'll find a prayer schedule for our church and Pastor Joey.
Sabbatical Prayer Guide
For our Pastor...
Week of May 1st:
Joy and peace in Joey during this sabbatical
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Week of May 8th:
Renewal and excitement in Joey's mind and soul
Week of May 15th:
Clarity and direction from the Father for Joey
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Week of May 22nd:
God to surround Joey with voices of encouragement and love
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Week of May 29th:
Joey's relationship with God will grow deeper than ever before
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For our Church...
Week of June 5th:
Our church family to draw closer to Jesus than ever before
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Week of June 12th:
God to raise up leaders within our family to build it up, serve, and equip its members
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Week of June 19th:
Our church family's impact on this city would create stories that we will share for decades.
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Week of June 26th:
Our church family will grow in maturity and in number.
For the Cooks...
Week of July 3rd:
The Cook family to find adventure and joy together
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Week of July 10th:
The Cook family to rest in the completed work of Jesus
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Week of July 17th:
Each member of the Cook family to experience intimate moments with the Father
Week of July 24th:
Blessing and protection on the Cook family as they return to lead our church family
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