Pastoral Pause
A Practical Guide to Renewal Leave
Paperback
Clergy & Laity
Healing & Wholeness
Spiritual Practice
Take a break before you shatter.
In the demanding realm of pastoral ministry, where energy fades and the threat of burnout is ever-present, pastor Greg Pimlott offers a lifeline. With disarming humor and refreshing honesty, Pimlott invites us into his own transformative journey from burnout to spiritual revitalization, providing encouragement, inspiration, and practical tools for other pastors on the brink of exhaustion and considering a renewal leave.
From his candid account of the moment he realized he needed a break, to a life-changing encounter deep in the New Mexico desert, Pimlott shares poignant glimpses of life before, during, and after his leave to inspire his fellow clergy. Along the way, he provides spiritual and practical resources such as renewal leave checklists, budget-planning tools, book lists, reflection prompts, liturgies, and devotions to equip others on their journeys.
Pastors, facing the challenges of strained relationships, waning creativity, and diminishing spiritual reserves, will find solace and guidance in this invaluable and relatable resource. Take a break before you shatter — Pastoral Pause is your indispensable companion on the journey to self-renewal.
Read a Sample.
Greg Pimlott is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and has served five UMC churches in the past 18 years. Prior to graduating with a Master of Divinity and a Certificate in Black Church Studies from Candler School of Theology, Pimlott served as a missionary in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Appalachian Kentucky. He lives in Indiana with his family.
Reviews
"With the latest statistics on pastor and leadership burnout, this work by Pastor Greg comes at a pivotal point. His rich story, intermixed with practical and effective tools for addressing burnout, make this book a must read for any leader facing today's climate."
— Rev. Dr. Ron Bell, Director of Healing & Resilience, The Upper Room
“For the weary pastor plagued by over-work, depleting inner reserves, and vocational burnout, Pimlott offers a practical guide for an intentional and holy renewal leave, including personal stories, planning lists, brainstorming prompts, and devotional practices. Pastoral Pause is a timely gift to pastors and congregations committed to life-giving leaves and healthy returns.”
— Rev. Mark Feldmeir, author of Life After God, and Sr. Pastor of St. Andrew United Methodist Church, Highlands Ranch, Colorado
“Pastoral Pause is an essential read for pastors confronting burnout and seeking renewal. With heartfelt anecdotes and practical advice, Pimlott offers a roadmap for planning and executing a rejuvenating sabbatical. This book not only validates the spiritual necessity of taking breaks but also provides the tools and insights for sustaining effective ministry. A blend of narrative and guidance, Pastoral Pause is a valuable resource for clergy aiming to rejuvenate their passion and commitment to their calling.”
— Rev. Cameron Trimble, author, Searching for the Sacred, and CEO of Convergence, an international church consultancy