Guidelines:

--> Clergy may request Long-term Renewal (Formational and Spiritual Growth Leave, BOD 350.3) up to 6 months for those who have held full-time appointments in the DK Annual Conference for at least six years (may be pro-rated for part-time clergy)

--> Long-term Renewal is available to Elders, Deacons, Associate Members and LicensedLocal Pastors.

--> Clergy continue to hold an appointment during Long-term Renewal.

--> Long-term Renewal is in addition to vacation time, and the local church continues to provide compensation and benefits during this period.

--> An overview of the process can be found here.

--> A request for pastoral coverage funding can be found here.

Long-term Renewal is considered for the following reasons:

--> A significant time of rest, relaxation and renewal

--> A time to nourish relationship with God

--> A time to recommit to the call to ministry and discover a renewed vision and focus for ministry

--> A time of study for spiritual and formational growth

(Note that remunerative employment during a Long-term Renewal is not permitted unless directly related to the formational plan. Also, applications will not be approved for renewal time away when a clergy is within three years of anticipated retirement.)

In addition to filling out this request form, please create and submit a Formational Plan for learning and growth.Please attach your Formational Plan for your Long-Term Renewal HERE.

You may submit a request as well for a pastoral coverage grant found HERE.

The application submission will be reviewed by a Review Team with representation from the Cabinet, the Board of Ordained Ministry, Dakotas Conference Board of Pensions, and the Area Director of Clergy Well-being, who may contact the church pastor, the individual submitting the application, and the district superintendent if additional information is required. Should you have questions, contact Diane Owen, diane.owen@dkmnareaumc.org