Ask a Priest: What is a Sabbatical?

(and a life update from Fr. Andrews)

It’s exciting for me to provide a life update on something I’ve been wanting to do for a while. Every 10 years, priests of the Archdiocese of Omaha are eligible to apply for a sabbatical. A sabbatical is an extended time away from his normal duties so that a priest may maintain his effectiveness and expertise in ministry by way of spiritual and/or educational experiences. A sabbatical is distinct from other leaves such as vacation, sick leave, assignments outside the diocese, etc.

This will be my first sabbatical in my 22 years as a priest. With Archbishop Lucas’ approval, I will be taking the months of November and December of this year to experience the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. My director will be my good friend, Fr. Mark Toups, who is pastor of Our Lady of the Isle Parish on Grand Isle, Louisiana. This will be my second and probably last time to receive God’s grace on a 30 day retreat. The first time was in 1999, the summer before my ordination as a transitional deacon. After the exercises are complete, I will stay on Grand Isle to unpack the graces and enjoy some leisure time.

I’m grateful for Fr. Scott Schilmoeller and my excellent team here at the Newman Center for their generosity in taking of everything while I’m away. Please know that I will be praying for you. I ask, in your kindness, that you do the same for me. Praised be Jesus Christ!