From the opening chapter of Genesis, a work/rest cycle is commanded by God. Many times in the New Testament, Jesus withdrew to reconnect with His Father, recharge His soul and renew. His strength. In today’s 24/7 world, an intentional time of renewal is not just important, it’s mandatory!
In addition, we often wear out because we’re not playing to our strengths. Pastoral “fit” should be a “hand in glove” experience; often, if we’re honest, it can be more a “hand in shoe”, where the pastor is doing everything but ministering out of his sweet spot.
Pinnacle can help in both situations!
Shalom House
Come experience Shalom House, a unique and beautiful family-oriented retreat center in northeastern Wisconsin. Shalom House has a bed-and-breakfast ambience, including a huge indoor pool area, hot tub and game room, all located on three wooded acres in northeast Wisconsin. Designed to serve one family at a time, pastors and their families can get away for a rest and be cared for by our gracious host couple. In addition, small leadership teams can withdraw and plan for future ministry. For more information on this great facility, or to check on availability, visit our Shalom House web page. Or download a brochure to see what Shalom has to offer.
Pastoral Refocus
Pastors desiring a deeper experience can engage in a peer-facilitated refocusing process. Employing several helpful testing tools, and one-on-one time with a person experienced in pastoral ministry, the ministry couple can take a fresh look at their life and ministry. This can be especially helpful during times of transition, or as a part of a sabbatical process. Often, pastors who are contemplating doing a Retool process begin at Shalom to prepare themselves for leading a change process. You can download a sample of one of the tools we use (MinistryStyles Inventory) to see how helpful this can be in gaining insight for ministry.
Sabbatical Planning
We also advocate for, and help plan, sabbatical leaves. For many churches, sabbaticals are a new experience, and often it’s difficult to convince the church of the need. Our little booklet, Sabbaticals – the Necessary Option is a good place to start. Download a complimentary copy, and use it to introduce the idea of sabbatical to the church leadership. Then give us a call to see how we can help plan and execute a sabbatical leave.
By any measurement, pastoring today is tough duty! And yet, the possibilities have never been greater.
Jesus said, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
(Matthew 11:28-30, The Message)
Let us help you focus on “the unforced rhythms of grace”. Your family…and your church…will be glad you did!
“I want to thank you…for being a sounding board for a very painful time in my ministry and the ministry here at my church. I know as we are obedient to the Lord, he will continue to mold us and shape us in His image that we might more lovingly reflect the example of Christ to those around us.” – Florida pastor
“Your advice and direction was hard at first, but it helped me do the right thing with respect to the church and my family. A year later, we’re getting back on track…” –Midwestern pastor