Needless to say, the last month has been full of emotion, wrestling, searching, and reconnecting for me and many of us in this congregation. We have been a very busy group, accomplishing a lot in a short amount of time. And I don't believe I had really faced the toll that had placed on me - or us - until recently. I have shared with you, in an informational meeting and in my sermon from January 22, how I am exhausted spiritually and emotionally, and I need a time of renewal. I also believe it is important that the congregation engage in a time of Sabbath and renewal, so that we both might breathe a bit and hear anew what God is calling us to do together. That is the purpose of the Clergy Renewal Grant from the Lilly Endowment, for the Endowment recognizes that healthy churches and pastors must have intentional times of renewal for the ministry to thrive and grow.

At its January stated meeting, the Session voted to apply for this grant by the March 12, 2012, deadline, with the expected time of renewal to be in 2013. This decision came after much thoughtful, honest, and prayer-filled discussion, and I am deeply grateful for these leaders you have selected, for they truly modeled seeking the mind of Christ. This is a competitive process, and members of the Session will work with me on completing the grant applicaton by March 12.

What will this application for renewal include? Here are some of the items:

• A 16-week period in 2013 when I would be away from John Knox, from mid-April to early-August.
• During this period, I would spend time in places, both near and far, which bring me rest and renewal. This might include places like Scotland, the beach, Hawaii, and home.
• I would spend time visiting with and learning from other pastors who are in long-term pastorates.
• This time would be spent at times by myself, and at times with Debbie and the girls as a family.
• The church would have full-time pastoral leadership during this time, both through Lisa and contracted supply.
• The church would have activities of renewal, such as day-long retreats, guest speakers, and other events which center on themes of Sabbath and sharing our stories.

This is a snapshot of what might happen, and more details will continue to

be developed as we work together and will be shared with you through the newsletter and our church website. I thank all of you for your love and support, and ask for your continued prayers as we seek God's guidance in our shared ministry together.

Peace be with You,

Frank