PREACHERS rest

Preachers often carry significant responsibilities, yet many struggle to find true rest and renewal

Upper New York’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. , believes that preachers who have a healthy rhythm of rest, work, and play in their day-to-day lives will be more inspirational preachers.

In this page, we want to help you find the best way to revitalize and nourish your spirit, whether through a simple suggestion, rest resources or retreat.

RETREAT

The Compelling Preaching Initiative of United Methodists of Upper New York is dedicated to revitalizing preachers and nourishing the spirits of pastors through helping Preachers practice a healthy rhythm of rest, work and play. Through our 1 Day Retreats we aim to help renew, restore, and inspire pastors, equipping them to continue their ministry of preaching.

What does a Retreat look like?
The Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. Retreat offers a time for rejuvenation, including open periods for play, physical rest, silent reflection, and creative crafting. This retreat is designed to nourish both the body and soul, providing moments of soul rest through journaling, small group discussions, and personal reflection. Participants will also enjoy unscheduled time for walking and relaxation.
Who can partipate?
Open to all clergy and laity who regularly preach at a church or ministry of the United Methodists of Upper New York.
How much does it cost?
Cost: approximately $10, includes lunch and a copy of God’s People: Rest. Work. Play. Journal from UNY’s Compelling Preaching Initiative.

resources

Season of Rest

A free 4 Week Sermon Series - Co-written by Breakthrough

Full Resources

GOD'S PEOPLE - REST, WORK AND PLAY

God's People - Rest, Work, Play journal invites you to reflect on your daily experiences, assess your well-being, notice moments of inspiration, set intentions for the future, and express gratitude. Through these daily reflections, you'll find renewal, restoration, and inspiration, equipping you to live a life of purpose and joy.

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How to Rest for Preachers

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FIND Rest

Connect with one of the following ways to rest

5-20 minutes of Adult Coloring

can ease stress, offering a quick mental reset for play or rest.

Take a 10-50 minute Nap

Declutter a Small Space

Organizing one drawer or surface can be restful and brings a sense of calm.

Take a 10-30 minute Walk

to reduce stress and improve your mood.

Read a Fiction Book

6 minutes of reading has been shown to reduce stress levels, while 20-30 minutes can deepen relaxation, improve focus, and enhance mental well-being.

Journal with God’s People: Rest. Work. Play. Journal

Write down 5 Gratitudes from Today

Take a Quiet Bath

Visit a body of Water

Meditate with a Deep Breathe Prayer

Pause for a Quiet Cup of Tea

Sit in the Sun

10-15 minutes of sun exposure can improve mood, reduce stress, and boost serotonin.

WANT SOME HELP?

Click the button to open the pop-up, print the screen and check out an immediate way to Rest

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