APC Clergy Sabbatical Program begins with Leadership 100 Startup Funds
With the blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros and the Holy Eparchial Synod and through the generosity of Leadership 100, the Archdiocesan Presbyters Council (APC) Clergy Sabbatical Program will soon take applicants for the first funded grants for Clergy Sabbaticals. The mission of the APC Clergy Sabbatical Program is to make Clergy Sabbaticals possible by providing information, funding, and fill-in clergy to serve during the Sabbaticals of active clergy.
Clergy Sabbaticals are a long-established tradition and a time for pastors to take an intentional break and experience a change of pace and location, discover new perspectives, gain fresh vision, rest, and return energized. The priest and the parish and Metropolis benefit by the return of a rested leader ready to re-engage in parish life and growth.
“This program, carefully developed over the last two years by an APC team, blessed by the Holy Eparchial Synod, and now initial funding through a generous Grant of Leadership 100, will provide guidance, resources, and financial support for the priest and parish for a 12-week Sabbatical with a start date in 2026”, stated Rev. Fr. Jerry Hall, Program Administrator. It responds to the need to provide accessibility for the clergy sabbatical by removing barriers and providing, if needed, clergy to serve for the priest on sabbatical and an appropriate stipend.
Developed under the auspices of the APC, the Clergy Sabbatical Team is led by Rev. Fr. Jerry Hall, and members Rev. Fr. Bill Bartz, Rev. Fr. John Touloumes, Rev. Fr. James Retelas and Rev. Fr. Mark Leondis. They help fulfill the vision approved by our Synod, “Clergy transformed with refreshed spirits, renewed energy and rededicated ministries.”
Click here to download pertinent information regarding the APC Clergy Sabbatical Program
The Application Period Is Now Open for the 2026 Clergy Sabbatical Program Grants
Three grants will be awarded to eligible Orthodox priests who demonstrate a clear vision for rest, reflection, and revitalization in their ministry. The sabbatical program affirms the APC’s commitment to sustaining healthy and vibrant clergy who are renewed to continue their sacred work in service to Christ and His Church.
Click here to download the 2026 APC Clergy Sabbatical Application.
The deadline to apply is July 15, 2025.
Grant recipients will be officially announced on September 1, 2025.
For more information about this program you may contact Fr. Jerry Hall, program administrator at: APCSabbaticalInfo@gmail.com