The Center for Leadership Excellence received an $85,000 grant from The Duke Endowment to launch a new clergy renewal leave initiative to support pastors in taking intentional time for spiritual renewal.

In recent years, clergy have faced unprecedented challenges, including the pandemic, congregational change, declining volunteerism, and increased demands on their time and energy. Although the Book of Discipline provides for formational and spiritual growth leave, many North Carolina Conference pastors have been unable to take this time due to financial barriers and ongoing congregational needs.

Renewed for the Journey addresses those barriers through a four-part approach: preparing congregations to support their pastor’s absence, offering coaching and planning resources for clergy to have a fulfilling leave, funding pulpit supply and congregational care during leave, and providing a stipend to help pastors plan meaningful renewal experiences. The program will prioritize clergywomen and pastors of color. Over the course of three years, a total of twenty-five pastors will participate in a four-week renewal leave through Renewed for the Journey.

Listening sessions with clergy revealed that renewal leave often leads to healthier ministry patterns, renewed pastoral energy, and increased lay leadership and ownership within congregations. Pastors consistently report returning refreshed, with greater clarity and a deeper commitment to sustainable ministry.

Supported by conference leadership, Bishop Connie Shelton, and district superintendents, this initiative reflects a commitment to clergy wellbeing as an essential part of congregational vitality and faithful ministry. 

Curious if Renewed for the Journey is for you? Reach out to your District Superintendent to start the conversation. For other questions about the program, contact Leah Wiebe-Smith at cle@nccumc.org.