The Presbyterian Church in Canada (PCC) offers a unique opportunity for its ministers known as "Inter-Mission." Established in 1992 and updated in recent years, Inter-Mission is designed to support church leaders by providing them with a dedicated period for spiritual renewal and personal growth. This policy, while primarily aimed at ministers, extends its spirit to all church workers, encouraging a holistic approach to well-being and ministry effectiveness.

What is Inter-Mission?

Inter-Mission is a ten-week, full-time sabbatical granted to ministers after five years of continuous service. Unlike a typical vacation or study leave, Inter-Mission focuses on deep spiritual renewal, allowing ministers to reconnect with their calling and replenish their spiritual, emotional, and intellectual resources. As the PCC’s guidelines state, this time is to be "for the sake of self, not for the congregation or the church"​​.

Key Aspects of Inter-Mission

Eligibility and Duration:

Ministers are eligible after five years of service, with the option to take an Inter-Mission every five years thereafter. This period is a ten-week sabbatical, designed to provide ample time for meaningful reflection and renewal​​.'

Funding:

Inter-Missions are self-funded. Ministers are responsible for the cost of pulpit supply and any expenses incurred during their sabbatical. Financial assistance may be available for educational components through accumulated study leave allowances and continuing education grants​​.

Goals and Activities:

The time can be used for various purposes, such as engaging in academic studies, learning a new discipline, focused prayer and scripture reading, or spending quality time with family. The emphasis is on activities that nourish the soul and refresh the minister's spiritual life​​​​.

Procedures and Responsibilities:

A proposal must be submitted to the session and presbytery twelve months prior to the start of the Inter-Mission. This proposal outlines the goals, supervision plans, financial arrangements, and workload coverage during the minister's absence​​.

The Importance of Inter-Mission

Inter-Mission is not just a break but an intentional period of spiritual and personal renewal. It acknowledges the immense demands placed on church leaders and provides a structured way to ensure they can sustain their ministry with passion and integrity. By encouraging such practices, the PCC fosters a healthier, more vibrant ministry environment, benefiting both leaders and their congregations.

Further Resources

For more detailed information on Inter-Mission, you can review the updated guidelines (2022) available here. Additionally, Rev. Don Muir, Associate Secretary, General Assembly Office provides further clarification on how these policies apply in this article.