An Overview of the SAT Sabbatical - Part of The Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA

The SAT Sabbatical is an affiliate program of the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California. It provides an opportunity for priests, men and women religious, and lay ministers to renew and integrate their theology, spirituality, and pastoral ministry within a holistic context.

The School of Applied Theology has pioneered a unique, relaxing sabbatical program specifically designed for persons in mid-life and beyond seeking spiritual renewal and personal enrichment. We invite leading presenters from the schools of the Graduate Theological Union and other institutions in the Bay Area and across the United States to come to SAT and to synthesize the best of contemporary thought in their fields of expertise. They share their insights in modular units of learning which are presented to the entire SAT group. This common learning increases the capacity of SAT participants to explore and share on a deeper level connecting their new learning to their experience in pastoral ministry.

The program is composed of two sessions - one in the Fall (late August through early December) and Winter/Spring (late January through early May). Participants are encouraged to take the full program (both sessions), though some may choose to take just one of the two sessions. This is usually dependent on the length of their sabbatical and their budget.

Modular scheduling provides the possibility for greater exposure to a wide variety of topics/issues and presenters. Modules of eight to fourteen hours are offered in theology, scripture, spirituality, pastoral ministry, and psychology. The SAT sabbatical is a self-contained program, which means all presenters come to SAT and all modules are available to all participants. Upon completion of the program a certificate. A transcript, from the Graduate Theological Union is also awarded, upon request, listing all the CEU's (continuing education units) earned during the program.

The SAT Sabbatical also provides diverse opportunities to enrich one's self-understanding and spirituality through spiritual direction, liturgies, and days of prayer, contemplation, and retreat.

Typically, in each session of the program there are approximately 15-25 participants who come from many different countries and cultures, adding richness to the sabbatical experience.