Sabbatical News 2026

Many of you will have been at our anniversary celebrations last year, when we gave thanks to God for all that he has done in us and through us over the past 10 years.

In light of that, we are sending Steve and Viv off on a 3-month sabbatical, from May-July 2026, to ensure that they have an extended time-out to rest, reflect, and recharge for many more years to come. This is something that the staff, trustees and Steve and Viv are planning together, to ensure that the whole church thrives in their absence. In response, we’d like to invite you into that journey with us, as you continue to lean into what God is doing in your life and in our midst.

We have never wanted V61 to be just a church to attend, but a family to belong to, and that is as true for this coming year, as it’s ever been. We believe that God is in the transformation business and we get to join in. In particular, we believe that He is calling us to build a home here: that to seek first the Kingdom of God is to make our home in him and allow Him to make His home in us.

- The Senior Leadership Team

What is a sabbatical?

A sabbatical is an extended period of leave or break from one's regular responsibilities, particularly for those in pastoral ministry. It allows individuals to rest, reflect, and recharge, away from their usual duties.

Why take a sabbatical?

Pastoral ministry comes with its own set of joys and challenges, and we see that even in the midst of his vital mission, Jesus withdrew to find rest. This sabbatical will allow Steve & Viv to take a break from all pastoral ministry, to visit new places, learn new things, and simply take time to rest, reflect and recharge. So that they can return to their role with fresh energy, new perspectives, and renewed passion.

Is this a sign that something is wrong?

No. This is the sign of a healthy church. It is a good and positive decision to be able to recognise all that Steve and Viv have poured into this church so far and to provide them with this extended period of rest. This sabbatical is an investment in Steve & Viv individually, but also an investment into the life of the life, health and future of our church.

Who will lead the church whilst they are away?

Kelsey and SP will lead the church whilst Steve and Viv are away, and Karen will be supporting them in that. So that our staff can continue to oversee their areas of work and ministry, our site pastors - Isaac & Kimbrah (Balham), Rudi & Raelene (Battersea) and Kelsey (West Side) - continue to lead our sites, our life groups leaders continue to lead our life groups, and we continue to meet together to worship and serve our communities.

What’s my role in this?

We’re inviting you into this journey with us! As we lean into the simple, sacred theme of ‘home’ this year, we are joining in with the transformative work that God is doing to make V61 a place where people find belonging, healing, and purpose in his presence. This work doesn’t belong to one person or one team. It’s something we build together. Every greeting at the door, every meal shared, every act of service is a brick in this spiritual house. So let’s lean in together.

How can I find out more about the sabbatical?

We’ll provide regular communications over the months to come with opportunities for additional questions or concerns, and we’ll continue to update our website to reflect the latest news.