About Menuha

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How Menuha Began

Menuha began with a simple but recurring observation: many pastors recognize the need for a sabbatical, but few feel they can realistically take one.


In conversations with local church leaders, a consistent concern surfaced. Sabbatical sounded beneficial in theory, but practical questions prevented action.


Who would preach?
Who would provide pastoral care?
How would the church function week to week?


Menuha was created to address those practical barriers. Rather than focusing only on sabbatical planning, we built a network capable of providing structured pulpit supply and coordinated support during extended pastoral leave.

“Before Vela, approvals felt vague. Now there’s a clear moment when everything is agreed on, and I can move forward with confidence.”

Smiling woman with dark hair in a bun, resting her chin on her hand against a pink background

Maria L.

Travel Advisor

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Our Mission

Our mission is to strengthen local churches by supporting the long-term health of their pastors.


We believe sustainable ministry requires intentional rhythms of rest. When pastors are healthy, churches are better positioned to thrive.



Menuha’s role is straightforward: provide reliable sabbatical coverage so churches can prioritize renewal without compromising ministry continuity.

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Our Vision

We envision a church culture where pastoral sabbaticals are normal, not exceptional. Our goal is to help churches establish sustainable rhythms that protect long-term ministry health.

“Before Vela, approvals felt vague. Now there’s a clear moment when everything is agreed on, and I can move forward with confidence.”

Smiling woman with dark hair in a bun, resting her chin on her hand against a pink background

Maria L.

Travel Advisor

What Sets Menuha Apart

Menuha is a coordinated network of experienced pastors, former pastors, ministry leaders, and administrators who understand the realities of local church leadership. Our support includes:

  • Consistent, Context-Aware Pulpit Supply
  • Congregational Care During Sabbatical
  • Administrative Continuity
  • Clear Role Expectations and Communication

Each assignment is structured to protect the authority of the local church and ensure healthy boundaries for the pastor who is away.

Our National Network

Menuha operates through a growing regional and national network of trusted leaders.



Those who serve through Menuha are experienced in pastoral ministry and aligned with our commitment to professional, accountable support. Each individual receives a stipend through Menuha, reducing financial strain on partner churches while maintaining quality and oversight.


We prioritize regional placement whenever possible to ensure sustainable service and relational connection.

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“Before Vela, approvals felt vague. Now there’s a clear moment when everything is agreed on, and I can move forward with confidence.”

Smiling woman with dark hair in a bun, resting her chin on her hand against a pink background

Maria L.

Travel Advisor

Meet the Team

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Michael Hidalgo

Co-Founder, CEO

Michael Hidalgo has over 25 years of experience in local church ministry as a teaching pastor and lead pastor. His focus has consistently been on supporting the spiritual and emotional health of faith leaders.



He enjoys skiing, cycling, and spending time in the mountains of Colorado. Michael, his wife, and children live in Denver, Colorado.

Scott Reeves

Co-Founder, CSO

A native Texan and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Scott spent 25 years in the Specialty Sports Surfacing industry as a Sales Executive and in Senior Management. His passion for serving and engaging people led him to pursue ministry at Riverbend Church.



Scott enjoys gathering around a table for a meal or coffee, values community deeply, and is active in nonprofit leadership and civic engagement. Scott, his wife, and daughters live in Austin, Texas.

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Smiling person in glasses wearing a navy shirt, standing outdoors by a building.

Kaylee Estes

Board Leadership

Kaylee Estes is an experienced leader with over 20 years in both the corporate and church worlds, serving in roles ranging from operations leadership to pastoral ministry. She holds a Master’s in Leadership from Denver Seminary.



Kaylee brings a strong combination of organizational expertise and pastoral perspective. She is passionate about helping churches thrive and supporting pastors in their well-being and leadership.

Renewed Pastors, Thriving Ministries

If your church is considering sabbatical coverage or pulpit supply, we welcome a conversation.