A Holistic Process

Rest
As a program and a process, we facilitate the holistic re-recreation of oneself.  We anticipate that those who join us will return to ministry renewed, more deeply grounded in the Spirit―God's Spirit and their own.

The time at SAT―one or two semesters―allows the Spirit to enrich participants in holistic ways.  We believe that whole persons, comfortable with their bodies and feelings, in touch with their spirituality and their sexuality, can be fully alive.  We are convinced that energized ministers are effective ministers.

Be Nurtured
Our location enriches the Sabbath experience.  The mild climate and breath-taking scenery of the Berkeley/San Francisco/Bay Area entices SAT participants to bike, hike, and sail.  They also enjoy the symphony, YMCA and numerous opportunities to experience the ethnic diversity of California.  Participants nurture their sense of wonder with optional trips to Carmel-by-the-Sea, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and the Grand Canyon.

Be Free

• Fifteen to twenty modules each semester

• Freedom to take as many or as few modules as desired

• No written assignments

• Varied, timely, relevant topics

• Flexible and specifically designed for persons in mid-life and beyond

Play

Pray
Spiritual direction, Eucharistic liturgies, integration groups, days of prayer, centering prayer, reflection mornings and body praise are some of the opportunities offered that facilitate a person's receptivity to the work of the Spirit.  In January there is a directed retreat at the Jesuit Retreat House.  Within the context of such experiences and this time of "holy leisure" one realizes a shift in one's way of being, seeing and choosing to live.

Yes, those who choose SAT for sabbatical know what it means to relax into God and to allow God to bring New Life!

Share New Ideas
Those who choose SAT―lay persons, religious and priests―bring a wealth of experience.  Women and men come seeking time away from ordinary activities.  They arrive weary, sometimes confused, always hopeful!  Here on five wooded acres amid gardens, courtyards and secluded walks they relax and deepen their relationship with God.  Participants come to know themselves more deeply in a supportive environment which encourages reflection, growth and dialogue.

The SAT Sabbatical is a holistic program which offers a unique opportunity for Christians in mid-life and beyond to be nurtured, refreshed and renewed for the Church of tomorrow.

SAT, an affiliate of the Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, is a program that provides a supportive environment which encourages participants to relax with God and minister to themselves while providing many opportunities for enrichment.  Individuals are encouraged to choose what is life giving for them without pressure.

A question SAT seeks to address is, "When participants leave their sabbatical and arrive at new and challenging moments and places, will there be a deep spiritual grounding that will center them courageously?"

APPLIED THEOLOGY describes the focus, charism, contribution and gift of the SAT program and process.  Participants are encouraged to take the learning and the experiences offered and MAKE IT THEIR OWN, mindful of their previous journey.  It is our belief that this impacts how one walks into the future.

For a list of modules/workshops for a typical year click here.