I wish to offer a word of thanks to the ELPC Session, staff and members for the opportunity to take a one-month sabbatical in November, with the remaining two months to be taken in July and August.
I am honored to have been elected to serve Pittsburgh Presbytery as Sr. Vice Moderator in 2016, even though the responsibilities connected to this role would interfere with my ability to take three months off together as originally planned. I am grateful for Pastor Randy’s creative thinking, Session’s permission to split up my sabbatical, everyone’s collective planning to ensure coverage while I was off. I’m deeply grateful to both staff and volunteers who stepped up to cover my responsibilities during my absence—particularly Pastor Randy, Pastor Patrice, Sara Hackett, Wil Forrest, Gloria Knopp, and Mark Blank.
Finally, I’m grateful that our congregation offers installed pastors three months of sabbatical after seven years of service. It’s hard for me to believe I’ve completed eight years of ministry here (and counting!), and I remain blessed to serve such a dynamic, loving, welcoming congregation, alongside gifted and caring staff. It is a privilege to be a part of this faith family!