In January of this year, I presented my written sabbatical proposal to the elders of our church in accordance with our sabbatical policy. In February, the elders graciously approved my sabbatical proposal with a few alterations. I shared briefly about my upcoming sabbatical in my sermon on February 25, emphasizing that the purpose of this renewal sabbatical is longevity in ministry at Wildwood. In my interview process with Wildwood in 2016, I was encouraged that Wildwood had a long-standing sabbatical policy. It conveyed that this church recognizes the toll of ministry on a pastor and his family and they care enough to keep pastors around for the long-term to offer this extended time away.