Refresher Leave Application & Grants

Refresher Leaves (typically 3 months long) are available to active clergy serving in the Church of New Hampshire who have been canonically resident for at least five years prior to the date of application, having served in their present position at least three years. A limited number of Refresher Leave Grants available each year for parochial clergy who qualify (see below).

How is leave time to be spent?

Refresher Leaves are intended to benefit the applicants’ growth and well-being. There are ways to spend the time

• travel

• extended study

• focusing on some area of passion entirely unrelated to one’s current ministry

• time to reflect and write

• simply to be.

We only ask that the leave time will contribute to the well-being of the mission of the church. A written report to the Continuing Education Committee will be due at the end of the leave.

Refresher Leave Grants

There are finite funds available each calendar year to be awarded as grants for parochial clergy. These funds supplement funding that an applicant receives from their parish, other grant sources and their own resources. The application below has a section where you will apply for a grant.

Application Submission

This application should be filled out 3-6 months prior to the date in which the leave is to begin. The Committee, in cooperation with the Bishop’s Office, makes the final decisions about funding Refresher Leaves. Apply below.

Contact: Dean of Clergy, the Rev. Louise Howlett