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| Rest and Renewal"God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that God had done in creation." — Genesis 2:2 Dear Friends: I've started a list of ways to tell that I'm really distracted. For years I have suffered from the usual syndromes of going into a room to get something but not being able to remember what it was, setting out for a lunch meeting and ending up on the road to my daughter's school, and forgetting who I'm calling while the phone rings. But recently, I've noticed some new behaviors. I sit in front of a stop sign waiting for the light to turn green. The bell on the microwave rings and I open the refrigerator. I have a hard time remembering what month we're in. My system seems to be on overload, and I think it's time to slow down, simplify things, and catch up with myself. Philosopher Norman Wirzba says that observing a Sabbath is all about trust in God, rest, and gratitude for what we have been given. He proclaims that the "seventh day" is a day for "celebrating the many gifts that make our living possible and a joy." The nature of my job as pastor requires me to work when others are resting, lead when others are grieving, and keep looking ahead when others are celebrating. I am always a pastor, even when I am also observing both painful and happy transitions and milestones in my own life. Of course, being a pastor is a life with many rewards, but after 15 years here in San Diego (and four previous years of service) it's time for me to clear a little space for some rest, some renewal, and some rediscovery of my own joy in God. The first segment of my sabbatical will take place during May of this year. I will be based at home, but "out of contact" with the church. I will sleep and read, write and garden, pray and do “nothing,” enjoy the stillness, and just be a mom for a little while. I will make a few overnight retreats at local retreat and conference centers, which will allow me to focus on communing with God, and also to explore resources which may be available for church groups. I will go to a "Creativity Workshop" in New York which will focus on awakening and nurturing the creative process (which I believe is necessary for keeping ministry fresh and vital). The second segment of my sabbatical will begin on June 24 and conclude on July 16. I have found that there is nothing like travel to help me leave my ordinary tasks and responsibilities behind, become open to new adventure, see things in new ways, and appreciate the wonders of God's world. I plan to go across the ocean for a week in Koblenz (Germany), a week in San Sebastian (Spain), and a week in Morschach (Switzerland). I will share experiences with my daughters, enjoy whatever delights the excursion may bring, and probably be challenged to remain flexible and embrace the unexpected. The final element of my sabbatical will be to attend the United Methodist International Convocation of Clergywomen, to be held August 13 to 17 in Chicago. The convocation with involve worship services, keynote speakers, seminars, and workshops. It will afford the opportunity to be with colleagues who share my vocation. Between the three segments, I will be back at church in my role as pastor. This is an unusual way to take a sabbatical, but I feel it is what will work for me and for the church. Arrangements are being made so that the quality of worship, care, administration, and outreach will not be interrupted. The church has in its midst tremendous leadership and many kind and generous people, so I am confident that this whole endeavor will only strengthen our ministry. I pray that this year you, too, will find ways to rest and rejoice in God's goodness. Peace to all, Pastor April |
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