Dear people of the Northwest Intermountain Synod,
One of the most common questions I get these days is: “What are you going to do on your sabbatical?” It’s an understandable question given that my sabbatical begins June 1 and continues through the month of August. The honest answer is that I don’t have huge plans. I am looking forward to spending time around my home and with family. I am looking forward to engaging in some local educational opportunities. And I am looking forward to spending time exploring some of the mountains and lakes and rivers in the Pacific Northwest. In short, I am looking forward to this truly being a sabbatical, “a break or change from a normal routine (as of employment)” as Merriam-Webster defines the term.
It is important to also note that the root of “sabbatical” is “sabbath,” meaning rest. That is something both God did (and does) and commands. “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” I am also looking forward to rest. Luther in the Small Catechism explains this means “we are to fear and love God, so that we do not despise preaching or God’s word, but instead keep that word holy and gladly hear and learn it.” I look forward to listening for and learning from that Word of God.
I also know that you, the people of the Northwest Intermountain Synod, will be in capable hands of the other Synod staff along with Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen, a retired pastor and former Assistant to the Bishop in the Pacifica Synod. She is coming on ½ during my sabbatical to help carry some of the load. Terry has already been meeting with a few call committees (via Zoom) across the Synod and brings much experience to this work (and teaching me some things, too!).
Mostly what I would like to communicate is gratitude for this opportunity to step back, to take a break, and to change the normal routine. Thank you.
God’s peace be ours,
Pastor Phil Misner