I recently returned from a renewal leave. One question I’ve been asked is, "Was it a nice vacation?"

The answer is yes—I found moments of rest and joy. But renewal leave is much deeper than a vacation. It is intentional time set aside to reconnect with God, renew one's calling, and return to ministry with fresh spiritual,emotional, and intellectual strength.

Pastoral ministry is unlike many other professions. People see us at work when we preach and lead worship. However, much of our work happens quietly and often invisibly. We are invited into life's holiest and hardest moments. We stand beside hospital beds, hold the hands of grieving families, celebrate new births, officiate weddings, and walk with people through the valleys of addiction, broken relationships, financial hardship, and mental illness. We carry confidential stories that can never be shared, even with those closest to us. We are often expected to be available at a moment's notice because crises do not observe office hours.

Rev. Matthew Smith

Over the years, I have found myself in places I never imagined I would be. I have stood beside parents experiencing the unimaginable grief of a stillbirth. I have talked a man away from the edge of a bridge as he considered ending his life. I have walked alongside a woman trapped in an abusive marriage, helping her find safety and hope. I have navigated the painful aftermath of clergy misconduct, helping congregations and individuals process betrayal and begin the difficult work of healing. These moments—and many others like them—are sacred privileges. They are also emotionally and spiritually weighty.

Most pastors gladly carry these burdens because they are part of our calling. Yet even Jesus, whose compassion never failed, regularly withdrew from the crowds. Again and again, the Gospels tell us that He went away to lonely places to pray, to rest, and to be with His Father. If the Son of God recognized the necessity of stepping away to be renewed, how much more do those who seek to follow Him in ministry?

Renewal leave recognizes this biblical rhythm. It is not about escaping ministry but about returning to its source. It is a time to remember that before pastors are preachers, administrators, counselors, or leaders, they are first disciples of Jesus Christ.

During my own renewal leave, I sought to embrace that rhythm. I slowly reread all four Gospels, allowing myself to encounter Jesus not as someone preparing the next sermon but simply as a follower listening once again to His voice. I made meaningful progress on my doctoral dissertation, which continues to deepen my understanding of healthy pastoral leadership and congregational renewal. I worshiped with three different churches, learning from the unique ways God's people gather and serve in different communities. And I spent time enjoying the beauty of God's creation—those quiet moments that remind us of the grandeur, creativity, and faithfulness of our Creator.

Together, these experiences renewed my heart, broadened my perspective, and reminded me why God first called me into ministry.

One of the greatest gifts I have received from my congregations is the opportunity to step away so that I could return more fully present. Their support demonstrates a profound understanding that healthy churches are led by healthy pastors, and healthy pastors are those who continually return to Christ for strength, wisdom, and renewal.

My prayer is that this season of renewal will bear fruit not only in my own life but in the life of my church as we continue seeking God's direction together. Renewal is not only for pastors. Jesus invites every one of us, saying, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28). My hope is that everyone will discover what it means to find our rest—and our renewed purpose—in Jesus.