Dear Friends,
I am writing to share some news about an important moment in the life of our staff this summer. Deacon Kris Oppegard will be on sabbatical from June 14 through September 7.
At Trinity, we believe that our rostered leaders, our pastors and deacons, are called not just to care for others, but to practice the kind of self-care that sustains them for the long journey of ministry. That’s why we have a policy granting rostered leaders a 12-week sabbatical once every seven years. It is part of how we live out our commitment to staff health, emotionally, spiritually, and vocationally. A sabbatical is not a bonus or a reward. It is a built-in rhythm of renewal, an expectation that those who lead among us will also tend to their own growth and their own souls.
Deacon Kris has poured herself into ministry here at Trinity in meaningful ways. She has provided leadership for our faith formation ministries, stepped in to lead Trinity Preschool, and carried much of the primary leadership for our senior high youth. She has given generously of herself, and we are grateful for that. And now, for twelve weeks this summer, we want her to step back, to rest, to learn, and to listen for God’s voice in her life.
That kind of renewal doesn’t just benefit Deacon Kris. It benefits all of us. People who return from sabbatical come back with fresh perspective and renewed energy. (I know this from personal experience!) The whole congregation gains when our leaders are given the space to grow.
We are working carefully to make sure all of our programs, ministries, and summer trips are well covered while she is away. More details on those plans will be coming soon.
In the meantime, I hope you will keep Deacon Kris in your prayers. Pray that she has good opportunities for rest and renewal. Pray that she is curious and open to what God has for her in this season. And pray that she returns in September refreshed and renewed for the ministry we share together here at Trinity.
We are grateful for Deacon Kris, and we look forward to welcoming her back.
In Christ,
Pastor Todd
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