Pandemic Sabbath: A Virtual Experience for Clergy

4-Part Series for Rest, Reflection and Renewal

These are hard times for all of us and especially for caregivers and frontline workers. Clergy are both. In this 4-part series, 15 clergy will have the opportunity to pursue a “Pandemic Sabbath.” Blanton-Peale will lead this time of rest, renewal, and community-building to support clergy in finding a greater sense of emotional well-being. Through a 4-part virtual program, the group will engage in interactive topics such as emotional literacy, trauma-informed cared, and resilience in leadership.

Pandemic Sabbath will be a 2-week virtual program during the weeks of May 7 and May 14. Each week will have two mornings (Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 AM – 12 PM) of interactive programming that includes the opportunity for community building with colleagues around topics relevant to leadership renewal.

Clergy are encouraged to consider ways they might lighten their ministry load during this 2-week experience.

Please use the “Register” button to fill out a brief application. Space is limited. Scholarships are available.

May 10 & May 11, 10 am to noon each day

I. Emotional Literacy for Clergy – Reji Mathew, Ph.D.
II. Trauma-Informed Pastoral Care – Reji Mathew, Ph.D.

May 17 & May 18, 10 am to noon each day

III. Resilient and Renewed Leadership I – Laurie Ferguson, Ph.D.
IV. Resilient and Renewed Leadership II – Laurie Ferguson, Ph.D.

Complete Descriptions of Each Module

Program Facilitators:

Reji Mathew,Ph.D., LCSW is a mental health educator and clinical instructor at New York University, specializing in skill-focused treatment models such as DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and BBT (Brain-Based Therapy). Dr. Mathew is also an intermodal artist and an expressive arts advocate. She is passionate about expressive languages—movement, visual arts, drama, writing, and music. Her social advocacy work centers on how artistic skills enable us to reimagine our lives when facing challenges.

Laurie Ferguson, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist, certified coach, organizational consultant, and ordained Presbyterian minister. A known consultant to clergy and organizations, Dr. Ferguson notes that her focus is on helping people recognize their unique purpose, then guiding and encouraging them to follow that path.

Mickey Correa, LCSW, M.Div. is a bilingual licensed clinical social worker and United Methodist Pastor who serves a bilingual parish in NYC and is the Chief Program Officer at Blanton-Peale, where he oversees training and clinical services. Rev. Correa will coordinate and bring continuity between the various sessions.