Rev. John’s Sabbatical Plan
April 1 – June 30 (sabbatical) / June 30 – July 31 (study leave)
The overall goal for me during this sabbatical is to get a much-needed mental/spiritual break from ministry to rejuvenate, pray and meditate on my family, life and work. Secondarily, I will spend time developing my “anthology” of works which will include my podcasts, writings, sermons, quotes, etc. Basically, creating an archive of my work for posterity. I believe as a Black UU, preserving my legacy is important at this point in my career. In terms of travel, it really depends on my budget. I did not receive the Lily grant I’d hoped for, so I will be dependent on some of my own money and professional expense funds to go several places. During this time, members and friends should not contact me under any circumstances. However, a board member will be designated as an emergency contact should such an event arise. I do not expect this to occur. Rev. Anastassia is a skilled minister and will be your minister to lean on during this time. I am happy you will have these months to learn more about each other.
During July I will reacclimate back into the life of the church slowly over the month and take on my full duties on August 1. Below is my tentative itinerary plan.
April 1 – April 7 / Civil Rights Journey
During the sabbatical, I plan to finish my civil rights tour of the south visiting places Dr. Martin Luther King frequented during the struggle. The final two places I will visit will be Birmingham, Alabama, and Memphis Tennessee on April 4—the day he was assassinated.
April 17 – 24 / Venice Beach, California
Joni and I plan to head west for a week to relax and watch the waves. This trip will be more of a vacation.
May 10-17 Silence
Rev. John will attend a silent retreat perhaps in Boone, NC.
June 15 – June 30 (tentative—based on Covid-19) / European Trains, and Historic Religious sites
Pandemic pending, Joni and I plan to visit several countries by train through Europe that played pivotal roles in the development of Christianity and western religious thought. Starting in Italy, then Germany, and England. There will be other stops along the way, but the pilgrimage will mainly focus on these four countries. Visiting places where Constantine, Luther, Henry VIII, and more lived and breathed. More specifically, we plan to visit Italy, Vatican City, Wittenberg, London, Cambridge, and more.
July 1 – 31 / Study Leave
Home and working on anthology and resting but on call.
August 1 / Return to work
I’m back!