Rector's Sabbatical Plans

This summer I am taking a sabbatical. Redeemer’s Letter of Agreement with me when I accepted the call to be rector was that I would take a three month sabbatical after five years of ministry. That five year anniversary was on December 1, 2006. The work of the vestry and capital campaign planning committee made it necessary for me to stay on board through the following program year. So after six and a half years of ministry, I will be taking a four month sabbatical.

The sabbatical has several parts. The journey begins in Lithuania. In a village near Vilnius, I will search for the story of my ancestors. My maternal grandmother was born there in 1890 and came to the U.S. in 1906. She shared her stories with her me when I was a child. The search is for my roots in Eastern European Judaism.

The next phase of my journey takes me to Florida where I will welcome my newest grandson, whose due date will coincide with our visit. From there I will join a CREDO Conference in Florida. CREDO is a conference sponsored by the Church Pension Fund to assist clergy in doing a thorough assessment of their life and ministry.

Finally, I will conclude my international travels with a trip to Zambia, where Judy, Elizabeth and I will have an extended visit. Elizabeth will have just finished her time of service in the Peace Corps.

Back in the US, there will be time for rest and recreation, much of it at home in Baltimore, and with a possible motorcycle journey to the Colorado Rockies.

In the months to come, I am eager to share with you the experiences and learning and what this all holds for Redeemer and for its rector.

Paul+

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Read Postings from Paul's Travels:

May 18, 2008 - from Lithuania

June 9, 2008 - between Trips

July 8, 2008 - in Africa