Reflections on My First Sabbatical

Every seven years, the Methodist Church gives its ministers the gift of a three-month sabbatical. This year, I had the privilege of taking my very first one—and to be honest, I didn’t quite know what to expect.

My sabbatical began on Easter Monday, just after a full and joy-filled Easter Sunday at Muswell Hill Methodist Church. It was a day of deep celebration—welcoming 21 new members at our confirmation service, rejoicing in three child baptisms and two adult baptisms, and giving thanks for the hope and promise of Resurrection Sunday. By the end of it all, I knew a time of rest, renewal, and reflection would be very welcome indeed.

I began ministry in 2018 and was due to be ordained in 2020—but like so many plans in that season, my ordination was delayed a year due to the pandemic. Since then, it has felt as though life and ministry have been running at full speed. This sabbatical was my opportunity to pause, to reflect on my calling, and to spend intentional time with God.

A Focus on Inclusive Welcome 

The central theme of my sabbatical was exploring how churches provide an inclusive welcome to all. My conviction is simple: the church should be a place where everyone is welcomed and served in the name of Jesus Christ.

The Methodist Church has a clear commitment to Justice, Dignity, and Solidarity, but I wanted to see how that vision comes to life on the ground—especially in communities where people hold differing views. I visited several churches in London and around the country to observe how they embody inclusivity, not just in their words but in their practices.

I’ve come to believe that many of us think of inclusivity in terms of the issues that matter most to us personally, but true inclusivity requires us to see the bigger picture. It’s not just about welcoming people—it’s about encouraging all peopleinto leadership and decision-making.

My reading list was wide-ranging: books on LGBTQ+ inclusion, disability, race, environmental justice, and more. These will form the foundation for further study, and I hope, fruitful conversations in ministry.


Rest, Joy, and Everyday Life

One of the unexpected blessings of a sabbatical is rediscovering the joys of everyday life. I had the time to attend sporting events, including the Women’s FA Cup Final and the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final—where I had the sheer delight of watching my beloved Hull Kingston Rovers lift the trophy 🏆.


I reconnected with my creativity through artwork, and enjoyed precious, unhurried time with family—including celebrating my father-in-law’s 80th birthday in a cottage near Whitby.





Another powerful experience was attending Andy’s Man Club, a free nationwide support group for men. It meets every Monday evening, creating a safe, non-judgmental space to talk—or simply listen—about life’s challenges. Too often, my Mondays are given over to church meetings, but during sabbatical I was able to make space for my own mental wellbeing. That’s something I aim to continue. Find out more here: https://revmlunn.blogspot.com/2025/06/what-andys-man-club-taught-me-about.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMK5-RleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHiO4J7RPHn7E-EN0ldQqebikT1L4r9lsMVsUcA1J_dtjlildBjADkOWtn6dQ_aem_jdkn24paSD7meTzMNqYTcw


Pilgrimage and Renewal

I closed my sabbatical with The Peak Wesley Way, a six-day self-guided pilgrimage through the heart of Derbyshire. From the gentler beauty of the White Peak to the rugged drama of the Dark Peak, it was a journey that enriched me both physically and spiritually. Find out more here: https://revmlunn.blogspot.com/2025/07/walking-peak-wesley-way-pilgrimage-of.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawMK5kpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHmGEh914uJ0CwSZcTEDL00Nv8tIYHRhVEyZJNBUkBmraZCvtAs6UvfaC5esi_aem_8ecR_j9v-UR4AorObVAewQ


Returning—With Gratitude

This sabbatical has been a precious gift. It’s given me:

  • More time with family than ministry life usually allows.

  • Opportunities to celebrate milestones without rushing back to work.

  • The joy of worshipping from “the other side of the pew.”

  • New insights and resources for building inclusive churches.

  • Space for reflection, creativity, and rest.

So, how do I feel about returning? Honestly—I’m still processing that. But I know this: I come back with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and a heart that’s been reminded why I serve.

Thank you to The Methodist Church for this gift of time. It has been a blessing beyond measure.









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