February 5, 2015

Professional Development

I’ll be honest. For many years, I saw “professional development” as code for relatively fun junkets away from the office. The idea of taking a retreat or sabbatical seemed like more of an excuse to get out of work than a needed time for reflection and rejuvenation.

I’ve changed my tune. In 2013, I attended Credo, a retreat sponsored by the Church Pension Group as a time to refocus and define spiritual, mental, financial, and physical goals. (Sadly, this was the last Credo for lay employees; the program continues for ordained folks). At about the same time, I began a year-long program through the local Chamber of Commerce for women in leadership. At the close of both, I knew that I had made some important decisions and experienced some needed renewal.

But the real fruits are coming to bear now, two years later. I had no idea the seeds that were planted during this time apart from the stresses of everyday life. But I’m experiencing them now.
In the past two years, I’ve switched careers, finding myself open to a job change after a decade working for an Episcopal diocese. It was a risk in many ways, but I’m finding that I’m happier and more fulfilled in my work than ever, and I believe I’m living into God’s call for my life and gifts. I am learning how to be a manager of people, and I’m certain that I would not have been open to the changes I needed to make in my work style and expectations without these two programs. The time away afforded me the opportunity to really reflect on my strengths and weaknesses, to develop an action plan of how to improve certain areas and to be more cognizant and responsive to others and their particular quirks. Promises that I made about my physical health are finally being realized after two years of gestation.

I suspect many congregations (including vestry members) might have their doubts about professional development programs. Sure, the idea is sound: it makes sense in theory that clergy and lay leaders might benefit from continuing education, retreats, and colleague groups. But perhaps we think it shouldn’t take too much time and definitely very little money.

Based on my own experience, my conversion from skeptic to believer, I encourage congregations to reconsider. Scripture commands weekly Sabbath; God knows we need the rest. Carefully selected professional development opportunities can be transformational, both personally and in the way someone leads.

We expect a lot of our leaders, especially clergy. Giving and encouraging them to take time for reflection and renewal is critical during this time of reimaging the church and its role in a post-modern world.

God knows what might come from this.​

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