One to Three-Month Study/Renewal Leave

Download the application form (Adobe PDF format)

The purpose of the study program is to enrich and better equip a minister for service. All full and associate clergy members of the Annual Conference are eligible for a study program following each five-year period of full time service in the North Indiana Annual Conference. Consultation for planning a one-to-three month study/renewal leave is provided by the Associate Director of Recruitment and Leadership Development.

Each applicant is requested to file an application outlining the purpose and plans nine months prior to the leave with the Associate Director of Recruitment and Leadership Development at the North Indiana Conference Service Center. Signature approval of the application is required from the District Superintendent and from the Pastor Parish Relations Committee, (or for those in a special appointment, from the immediate superior).

• The minister is to receive his/her regular financial support from the local church.
• Up to $1,800, pro-rated for the length of leave, will be granted the minister at the discretion of the Division on Ministry Development, allowing for total family income, size of family and other family needs.
• The cost of pulpit supply is provided to the church up to a maximum of $75 per week, based on usual cost of pulpit supply. This addition must be requested specifically, stating the plans for filling the pulpit and the cost per Sunday of doing so.
• Pulpit Supply is the responsibility of the minister and the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee in consultation with, and approval of, the District Superintendent. At the conclusion of the period of study, the minister is requested to prepare a statement no more than one page in length, outlining the results of his/her study and an evaluation of the experience to be submitted to the District Superintendent and Associate Director of Recruitment and Leadership Development. It is understood the study will be done in a library or learning setting.