Inter-mission: People are asking, so let’s talk about it!

Inter-mission
Written By Ministry Forum

More and more ministry leaders are talking about it —some are exploring the possibility, others are making plans, and many are asking: Could I take one too? At Ministry Forum, we’ve returned to this topic often—not just because it’s timely, but because we’re deeply passionate about it. We believe in ministry that is sustainable, grounded, and spiritually whole. And Inter-mission can be a powerful part of that journey.

But before we get too far ahead - what exactly is an Inter-mission?

Intermission is a 10-week paid leave available every five years for ministers in the Presbyterian Church in Canada. It’s an invitation to rest, to reflect, to step away from the mantle of ministry and rediscover God’s sustaining presence. As Rev. John shared from his own experience, it's about “stopping the practice of ministry and just being for an extended period of time”

We've heard from a wide range of voices on this topic:

  • In our panel discussion with Rev. Gale Macdonald, Rev. Meg Patterson, Rev. Matthew Brough, and Rev. Matthew Sams, each minister shared how intermission became a turning point in their ministry—offering deep rest, unexpected insights, and a renewed connection with their congregations.

  • Rev. Dr. Kristine O’Brien, now Executive Director at Crieff Hills Retreat Centre, emphasized the critical role that rest and Sabbath play in healthy, creative ministry. Her move from congregational ministry into retreat leadership reflects a commitment to sustainable rhythms (read and listen here).

  • The statistics are sobering. Research on clergy burnout shows that symptoms of trauma and exhaustion are common—and growing. We carry others’ pain, often in silence. Inter-mission gives us a way to heal before crisis arrives.

Rev. John’s Journey with Intermission

John has taken three Inter-missions in his years of ministry. Each one was unique, shaped by the season of life he was in. His goals included spiritual retreat, family time, disconnection from leadership roles, and space to pray and reflect. You can learn more about how he prepared by listening to the podcast episode from our first season here, plus Rev. John shared the documents he created to help him plan and communicate his plans to the congregation and to Presbytery:

Interested in exploring this for yourself or encouraging your minister to consider it? Here’s what the PCC’s updated 2022 guidelines lay out:

  • Eligibility: Ministers are eligible after five years of continuous service.

  • Duration: 10 weeks of full-time leave (often combined with vacation).

  • Funding: It’s self-funded. Ministers use continuing education allowances to cover pulpit supply.

  • Planning: A proposal should be submitted 12 months in advance to session and presbytery.

We've summarized everything you need to know in this overview.

Let’s KEEP Talking About It

The fact that Inter-mission was a topic several leaders wanted to chat about during General Assembly this past month tells us something important: ministry leaders are beginning to name the need for renewal. They're acknowledging their humanity. They’re imagining what faithfulness could look like with real rest built in. If you’re curious, hopeful, or even just wondering—Is this really possible for me?—we’re here to support you. Explore the links above, listen to the stories, and start the conversation in your context.

Because ministry is good, holy work—and to do it well, we need time to breathe, to rest, and to be.

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