A Time to Learn and Renew

Dear St. Laurence, 

With the permission and support of the Trustees, I have discerned that the time has come for me to go on a sabbatical.  That will happen June 20-September 6.  

Our Diocese encourages clergy to take time for continued study, rest and spiritual renewal, and every 4-7 years clergy often go away for an extended leave.  In September, I will have served St. Laurence for six years.  After the strain and stress of COVID, and the responsibility of stewarding both St. Catherine's and St. Laurence for the last year, I realize I need to take time to learn new things, rest and renew spiritually.  The goal of such a time period is that I would return to St. Laurence with new ideas, new vision and new energy.  I look forward to that.  

My plans are still evolving, but my intent is to attend the Theology Summer School at Oxford University in the UK.  I would also spend time with the Iona Community in Scottland, whose liturgies we often use in our worship.  I want to do some reading and research in the Old Testament, and I may do some of that at St. Andrews University in Scotland.  I also hope to have a few days at the British Museum, where I can see some of the antiquities from the ancient world.  Before I leave for the UK, I will participate in a Men's Kayaking Journey on Nootka Sound off of Vancouver Island.  My hope is also to spend some time with family and hike in the Rocky Mountains.  

The Rev. Carla McGhie serves St. Laurence as an Honorary Associate.  She has graciously agreed to step in and be the priest who will steward the congregation while I am away.  Her collaboration and support is greatly appreciated.

I am deeply grateful to be able to serve St. Laurence as your rector.   It is profoundly meaningful for me.  I am encouraged by the support I have recieved from the Trustees to take this time to learn and renew.  I pray that you, too, will also find time for rest and renewall this summer.  

Peace to you all, 

Eric