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Before I forget&
The clergy personnel policy for the Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis permits priests to take a sabbatical of three to six months every seven years. Permission is readily obtained, and the guidelines concerning what constitutes an acceptable sabbatical program are quite flexible. The archdiocese gives a modest funding for sabbatical but it also pays for the priest who will be covering for the priest on sabbatical.
I mention this because I will be on sabbatical from January 1, 2002, until Holy Week/Easter 2002. In all, I'll be away about 10 weeks. During my absence, Fr. Don Piche, who has helped out in the parish recently, will preside at weekend Masses and funerals. His weekend help will be paid for by the archdiocese.
Fr. Michael will have the chance to learn what is involved in the day-to-day running of a parish. With the priest shortage, younger priests with less than five years experience are being named pastors of parishes. Seminaries don't bother to provide even token courses in the administrative and managerial skills demanded for parish leadership. I was an associate under six pastors before I became a pastor. It's important to pass on the art of pastoral leadership to the next generation. It's my hope that Fr. Michael learn things that he wouldn't if I didn't take this sabbatical.
In almost 30 years of priesthood, this is my second sabbatical. I'm taking it because I'm in parish ministry for the long haul. I don't plan to retire early. I enjoy what I do and I want to stay healthy and have fresh ideas. So, on New Year's Day, I'll be flying to Australia to read, relax and travel around the country. While I'm there I'll be a guest of the Christian Brothers.
The only expense to the parish is my salary. I mention this because someone might think it's an added expense to the parish. The Brothers are giving me free room/board because they received the same kindness from religious orders and parishes when they were in the states.
I think the parish is in good shape and in good hands to allow me some breathing room. If the staff was crazy and if we had a major crisis, I certainly wouldn't be going. But I believe that the staff can be counted on to function at high levels in my absence. Fr. Piche is a good preacher and presider and won't cause any "mischief"!
There is an old dictum: "when things are going well, look out!" There's never a good time to go on sabbatical, but I need a break to refresh myself. It will be a lot cheaper than expensive therapy! And, and, I will only be gone until March 25 or so. I am returning. I am not moving to another parish. Please, don't worry. I am not leaving the priesthood, I am not getting married, I am not going away to dry out, I am not stressed out. I am just going on a sabbatical.
If you hear any good rumors, let Teri know at the office. Anyone who thinks I'm not coming back, please make a $5,000 wager with me in writing.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call me and we'll talk. Thanks.
Fr. Bill
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