I give thanks that by God’s grace great ministry is happening during our shared time as Pr Peter is on sabbatical. I have enjoyed learning about the ministry and mission of PoP. Christ is leading you into the future in great servant ways. Celebrate that spirit! Alleluia!
I have been focusing on sabbaticals for the Friday devotion for two reasons. First, to invite your prayers for Pr Peter’s sabbatical. He will be blessed and renewed by the sabbatical, and your prayers will bless him and you. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Proverbs 32.8) Second, I hope that you are making sabbath time for yourselves.
My ministry was blessed with three sabbaticals. With hindsight, I sense that these times provided space to renew my commitment to the Call to serve the congregation. They were also for spiritual renewal. My sabbaticals included “The Bible and the Land” in the Holy Land, the “Second Missionary Journey of Paul” in Greece and serving with Wittenberg English Ministry in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. These experiences deepened my love and understanding of scripture and our Lutheran history. These experiences led me to develop trips to the Holy Land and Germany for members and friends of the congregations. Those who shared the pilgrimages continue to share their appreciation for their spiritual growth and renewal.
It is amazing to me how God continues to grow and deepen our spiritual development, including through ministry and sabbaticals. I know that you will enjoy hearing about Pr Peter’s sabbatical experience that will further the mission of PoP and bless your spirituality. God is doing great things in our midst! Alleluia!
Blessings,
Pr Walter
Interim Lead Pastor
he/him/his