So, How Was Your Sabbatical?

A Message from Rev. Patrick Hunnicutt
Originally published in the April 2017 Chronicle

Here are brief responses to the most oft-asked questions I have enjoyed upon my return.

How was it?

Even though I mostly stayed put, the 3-month break from my normal rhythms was like hitting the open road with the windows down, the air fresh with possibility. The hardest part was going from being so immersed in the life and lives of our community to being so disconnected, though I enjoyed seeing several of you around town, and many of you popped up in odd (though in no way disturbing) dreams.

What did you do? Where did you go?

Here are some of the highlights:

  • A 4-day silent retreat (4 days) with the Richmond Hill community in Richmond – a time soaked in prayer and contemplation;
  • Fun trips, including a vacation to the Dominican Republic, visits with friends and family, and a sojourn to the holy land (that is, Duke!);
  • About a month of weekly tango lessons/date nights with Sally – the best part was the dinner beforehand. The actual dancing was not pretty, though often laughter-inducing;
  • Reading and writing — To complete my certificate in Shalem’s multi-year spiritual direction program, I wrote my final paper, a reflection on my life and ministry in light of the Trinity, the mutuality of care, and the sacred heart of Jesus.
  • Physical renewal — I attended to my physical health with a lot of swimming, core strength/exercise classes, biking, hiking, walking and a renewed attentiveness to my diet.
  • Week-long CREDO Conference (early March in Henryville, IN) – Sponsored by the PCUSA, this pastor renewal conference was the perfect way to transition into my return.
  • Enjoying the small gifts that are huge — extra time after school with my daughters, a few more meals cooked inelegantly by my hands, longer walks with my dog, Krimpet.

Do you feel refreshed?

It is wonderful to be back, to see the life-giving connection between work and rest, being and doing. Sabbatical was not about acquiring some new gift or insight, but reconnecting with that which I have known and needed to see and experience again with fresh eyes — my sense of who I am, in body, and in spirit, beloved in God’s love and grace and delightfully called to serve as a pastor in Christ’s church. I am abundantly grateful to be with you at Westminster. Many, many thanks to all who supported this time, away, especially Larry, Casey and all the staff and officers who bore extra responsibility in my absence, and the Personnel Committee and Session for granting this time away. May you too find your rest, and live into your work as those delightfully called to be the body of Christ!