Thank you, dear people of Trinity, for the prayers of blessings as I commenced my sabbatical on May 19. I am grateful for this opportunity to explore themes of Curiosity, Creativity, Connection and Renewal.
As I travel, learn, and step back from everyday tasks, I encourage each of you to join me in seeking some sabbatical moments this summer. How might you embrace these themes? I encourage you to be intentional about taking time to notice things during your daily life or when you may be on vacation.
- What are you curious about? What might you want to learn this summer?
- What is something creative you have always wanted to try? Or what is something that you have done in the past, that you would like to begin again? How can you make that happen?
- Where and how do you connect with God and your neighbor? (Record your God sightings.)
- Where and how are you renewed? Recognize these places and be intentional about making renewal time happen for you.
Think of a way you can record your own sabbatical moments to share with others: Take pictures. Keep a journal. Write a poem. Draw an image. Talk about it at the dinner table.
Throughout the summer during coffee and conversation time, let’s share some of our sabbatical experiences and insights with each other. (I plan to present a more formal sabbatical report to share with the congregation later in the fall.) I will continue to hold you all in my prayers until I return mid August and I ask for your prayers for me (and Peter!)
While Deaconess Deborah is traveling, creating and renewing on sabbatical, she will have limited access to email and social media. Pastor Hans will be the point of contact for anything Trinity-related.