TN106 Talk about taking time 'off'

First published on this website in February 2018 and last updated in January 2024

Synopsis

These notes set up a discussion for Ministers and church leaders on issues to do with both ‘work’ and ‘rest’. They highlight the need for greater understanding of practical issues that arise for a Minister’s ‘day off’ and a congregational leader’s time outside working hours.

The following are covered:

• Key principles (such as Sabbath, rhythm, pride, sloth)
• What is ‘work’ for different groups of church members?
• What is ‘rest’ (issues of sleep, relaxation, recreation, routines, relationships, discipleship)?
• Issues for time ‘off’ and holidays

The final section above on issues covers:

• location
• length of time
• emails, phone and social media
• general issues for everyone
• specific issues for Ministers/staff

Each section suggests discussion questions; the notes are designed to bring out the issues for a group to work at more than to provide easy answers. This topic is rarely shared in this way.

Tweet in response to this item from a Minister: 'My own experience of interruption of days off FWIW is that it never comes from irregular or fringe people, from leaders only in emergencies and with much apology, but often and unapologetically from non-leadership core people.'

These notes were updated in January 2024 with minor amendments to the layout and text.