This past week, we kicked off the fundraising effort in support of raising funds for my upcoming sabbatical. The following article was published in our church newsletter.

This summer, Pastor Dan Bodin will be taking a Pastoral Sabbatical, as approved by the congregation. The policy of our church states that a pastor is eligible to take a Sabbatical after completing 5 years of service, but funding is not provided. His sabbatical is planned for June 8-Sept 8, 2024.

While on Sabbatical, Pastor Dan (and his family) will be focused a number of different things:

• Intentional rest and rejuvenation 
• Working toward his family growing into his sabbatical theme “My Home A Lighthouse”
• Adapting a family Bible verse “Matthew 5:14-16”
• Renting an RV and taking a family trip around the great lakes, visiting various lighthouses
• Developing his skill of writing devotions, using things he and his family learn visiting lighthouses, as well as reflecting on when scripture talks about God’s Light
• Reading books and listening to a podcast, focused on “leading from the second chair”
• Intentional “couple’s retreat” to strengthen his marriage

The estimated cost to do all these things is around $15,000. Compared to other sabbaticals that other pastors have taken, this is a very average cost. The Sabbatical Fundraising Committee is working with Pastor Dan, helping to raise these funds within the congregation, and among others in Pastor Dan’s network of contacts. The Committee encourages you to donate towards this goal of $15,000. Any extra money received will go into the fund for future sabbaticals.

There is a video that has been put together, that presents and sums up the sabbatical plan, as well as asks people to consider support this effort with prayers, donations, and by sharing the opportunity with others. You can contribute with a special offering envelope or by giving online.

To view this video, and/or to make a donation, visit sstwbl.org/sabbatical. On this page, you can view the sabbatical proposal document and find a link to the blog that Pastor Dan will publish the devotions he will write while on sabbatical. You can also subscribe to receive email notifications of new blog posts.

Thank you for your support!