My Sabbatical theme is Renewing, Reconciling, and Reconnecting with Family. My plan centers on investing significant time in my family relationships.

Renewal is needed in my marriage, as my wife has endured the third?world living conditions and loneliness in Mongolia for over three years. Reconciliation is needed with my parents, because they vehemently opposed my ministry vocation and severed their relationship with me ten years ago. And reconnecting with other family members is needed because our Mongolian mission isolated us from their lives. As I intentionally experience life with them again, it will bring personal healing and will empower me to more effectively serve in my vocation.

My Sabbatical plan sets aside time for the spiritual disciplines of rest, reflection, and prayer, all of which will be done together with family. It also includes time for learning about Biblical family relationships, through reading books and interviewing experienced professionals.

Finally, I plan to write and publish a booklet addressing this challenge of obeying the Lord in ministry while also keeping vibrant family relationships. This resource will benefit the Church, by serving both current pastoral leaders and lay leaders who face opposition from family members.