As our minister’s sabbatical draws to a close, we wish to express profound gratitude to so many:
· To the Sabbatical Team of ministers, Rev. Judith Long, Rev. Sally Beth Shore, and Rev. Michael J. Carter for not only their ministering to us from the pulpit but for stepping up to manage staff, facilitate adult education classes, meet with the ‘Spirituality on Tap’ group, hold ‘Conversations with the Minister,’ officiate at a wedding, and meet regularly with the Board and committees to offer a guiding hand. We are especially grateful for their care and grateful to Jim for creating this team of ministers to maintain our vitality and energy in his time away.
· To the Worship Team for their care in scheduling guest speakers and attending to the many details that make our Sunday Worship a vibrant and memorable experience.
· To the Staff, oh, how beautifully Katherine, Vicki, Sandy, and Bill have kept our daily lives humming along with the help of Judy Long’s poise and presence.
· To the Board for its leadership and compassion when it learned Jim wasn’t just on sabbatical, but would be undergoing serious surgery – not the most restorative way to launch himself into a sabbatical of renewal.
· To the Pastoral Associates who serve our congregation with care and compassion.
· To all the standing committee and ad hoc committee volunteers who faithfully carry out the many weekly and monthly tasks with generosity of spirit.
· To each member and friend for recognizing the value of sabbatical time for our minister.
· And, finally, to Jim for his enduring stewardship of our congregational life.
Jim, welcome back to the vitality and energy you helped create. Welcome Home!
The Sabbatical Task Group