Rector’s Sabbatical
What is a sabbatical and why do clergy take them?
A sabbatical is understood to be a time utilized by clergy in order to be released from regular ministries for the purpose of study, theological reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthening of skills for their ministry. A clergy sabbatical is not simply a leave intended for rest, relaxation, or change in routine. For clergy, sabbatical is a time for renewal of one’s sense of vocation and extended study not possible during the typical work year. In the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island clergy are eligible for 3 months of sabbatical upon completing 5 years of ministry in a particular congregation. This is in addition to the usual vacation time clergy take.
When will Fr. Dante be gone, and what will he be doing?
Fr. Dante has decided to split up his three months of sabbatical over two years. In 2025 he will be away from June 9 - September 9 (two months of sabbatical followed by his vacation), and in 2026 he will be gone form June 1 - August 4 (one month sabbatical followed by vacation).
At St. Thomas we have been focused on the work of anti-racism, and more recently, putting concerted effort into building relationships across lines of difference. These priorities are necessary contemporary applications of the mission of the Church as expressed in The Book of Common Prayer, “The mission of the Church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ” (p. 855). Fr. Dante will use his sabbatical to better equip himself to lead our community in this work.
As part of the application required by the Diocese, clergy are to plan three components for their sabbatical: Academic, Spiritual, and Personal.
Sabbatical Component:
Academic
This component will primarily be done through independent study. Fr. Dante has created a reading list including topics such as: discernment, congregational life, anti-racism and white supremacy, political diversity, LGBTQ+ theory and theology; interfaith collaboration; hospitality and welcome; and economics.
In addition to independent study Fr. Dante will spend time with colleagues around the state who already engage in this work.
For the second part of his sabbatical in 2026 he intends to participate in the Summer Study at Yale Divinity School program.
Sabbatical Component:
Spiritual
During both phases of his sabbatical, Fr. Dante intends to spend time on retreat. In 2025 he will spend several days with the Brothers of the Society of St. John the Evangelist. He will also hopes to visit the Convent of the Society of St. Margaret in Duxbury, MA. Fr. Dante is an associate of the society (celebrating his 16th anniversary this summer) and treasures his relationship with the Sisters of St. Margaret. He hopes to spend time on retreat with the Sisters in 2026.
Fr. Dante will also take time to worship at the parish which sponsored him for ordination (The Church of the Redeemer, Providence), visit other communities, and seek explore spiritual renewal through art, nature, and cooking.
Sabbatical Component:
Personal
This component will allow Fr. Dante to reconnect with family and friends around the North East whom he does not get to see regularly. He also plans to explore a new found interest in watercolor painting (he painted the photo above - a view of Providence from the Pedestrian Bridge); and expand his culinary skills - especially focusing on a diversity of cultural influences and traditions.