From Thursday, May 1, through Thursday, July 31, the Reverend David J. Powers, Pastor and Head of Staff of Idlewild Presbyterian Church, will take sabbatical leave. Oftentimes, questions arise when pastors take sabbatical leave. We hope this page will answer any questions you may have.

What is a sabbatical, and what is the context of David’s sabbatical specifically?
Sabbatical comes from the Biblical concept of Sabbath, which means “to rest” or “to cease.” Sabbath-keeping is part of the rhythm of life intended to refresh, renew, and keep human beings aware of the intimate presence of God within and around our bodies. Sabbatical leave is a time for one to reshape life for a certain season to rest, reflect, disengage, grow, and study, to return rejuvenated in mind, body, and spirit for the work of ministry. The 2020 letter of agreement between David and the Pastor Nominating Committee of Idlewild outlined that David would take sabbatical after three years of service. Now, several months into his fifth year of service, David, in conversation with the Personnel Committee and the Session, determined that May 1 through July 31 was the best timeframe for sabbatical.

The sabbatical is more than a break from administrative leadership, preaching, pastoral care and counseling, committee meetings, and wider community matters. David will benefit from focusing on health and wellness, namely spiritual, physical, and mental, to deepen his relationship with God and prepare for a new season of ministry at Idlewild. Like all clergy and others who often take sabbaticals, David appreciates that sabbatical leave is a privilege that should not be taken for granted.

What does David have planned during sabbatical?
In addition to leisure time with family and friends, he plans to rest; complete a few household projects; retreat to Ojai, CA and Davidson, NC; walk the Camino Primitivo – a 14 day spiritual pilgrimage in Spain; attend a few concerts; and lower his golf handicap.

Who will administer David’s responsibilities during his absence?
The Reverend Mary Newberg Gale and the Reverend Courtnay Veazey, along with fulfilling their normal pastoral responsibilities, will assume some leadership responsibilities during the sabbatical period, specifically, leading staff meetings and moderating Session meetings. The Reverend Joshua Narcisse will join Rev. Gale and Rev. Veazey in fulfilling preaching and liturgical leadership responsibilities. Ruling Elders will continue to govern our church and serve their roles as spiritual leaders of Idlewild.

Whom do I contact for hospital and pastoral emergencies and prayer requests?
For hospital and pastoral emergencies, church members may call or text the 24/7 Clergy On-Call at (901) 654-6872. Confidential prayer requests may be communicated by phone at (901) 487-6062 or by email at confidentialprayers@idlewildchurch.org. Additional prayer requests may be communicated by placing a Community Prayer Request card in the offering plate during worship or by sending an email to communityprayer@idlewildchurch.org.

Whom do I contact to plan special services, including baptisms, weddings, and funerals?
Contact Marsha Enlow, and she will connect you with the appropriate parties.

Whom do I contact for operations, administration, finance, buildings and grounds, and space reservation matters?
Contact our Director of Finance and Operations, Jessica Demster.

Will David be in contact with Idlewild during his sabbatical?
An important aspect of sabbatical leave is to allow clergy to fully disconnect from the church; therefore, David will not be in contact with the church. However, if extraordinary news must be communicated, Rev. Gale or Rev. Veazey will contact him.

Where can I learn more about the sabbatical?
Contact a member of the Personnel Committee.