Several years ago, James Simonton, the elder chairman here at The Ridge, announced that we have a new sabbatical and replenishment policy for The Ridge staff. This time is purposefully designed to help our staff replenish and be ready to continue to do whatever it takes to reach our community for Christ.  

Many of our staff have had the opportunity to have this time. Soon, Tim Perkins, the Executive Pastor at The Ridge, will have his opportunity to take a 6-week sabbatical. I am excited that Tim gets to spend intentional time with his family and with God. Often times, when we talk about someone taking sabbatical, I am asked if everything is okay. Sometimes sabbaticals are used because of negative things going on behind the scenes, and it’s a fair and natural question. My answer is a wholehearted, “Yes, more than okay.” I am so grateful for Tim, and I know Tim is delighted to have the privilege to serve here with such amazing people and an even more amazing God. 

Still, a sabbatical can be a significant and healthy thing. As we’ve studied and put together this policy for staff, we’ve discovered that sabbaticals can help our relationship with God. There are a lot of different ways this happens, but I believe taking time off pushes us to recognize that God is in control. It can help our team navigate the difficulties of ministry by replenishing. Time away allows different people to step into different roles for a short period of time. Sabbatical helps our relationships with family and friends. Sabbatical is an amazing way to care for our team. My hope is that this is just scratching the surface of what God will do for Tim.

He heads out right around Fall Break, and will be back after Thanksgiving. Could I invite you to say a prayer for him and his family as you read this? If you have any questions while he’s gone, feel free to contact The Ridge office and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Whatever it takes to Reach More,

Adam Johnson