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A Letter from Co-Pastor Josiah Bancroft
Because I co-pastor Grace with Dave Desforge, the elders thought it best that I explain Session’s recent approval of a request by Dave to extend his sabbatical by eight weeks.
From the start of our church, one of the terms of his contract as a minister was that Dave would have a sabbatical for a few months every seven years. A sabbatical is not a vacation, but a part of a regular work cycle that provides time for reflection, writing, personal growth and regaining creative focus and energy. At the request of the session, Dave had postponed his sabbatical for two years beyond its scheduled time during a particularly busy and taxing time for the church. Last spring, the elders approved the overdue sabbatical -- starting April 1 and lasting until August 1.
Over the last months before the sabbatical, I could see that Dave needed to recuperate and regain energy for the work. I am glad to say that I can see Dave’s energy returning, but I am sure that it will serve him and the long term interests of the congregation to take the additional weeks away. Personally, as his partner in the work here, I know Dave left drained, and I want him to return fully recuperated.
So, both for fairness to the spirit of our agreements and knowing Dave’s weariness, the Session felt that an extension was reasonable. I was very glad to support continuing the sabbatical schedule an additional eight weeks. And, though I miss the partnership, and folks miss Dave, things at the church will do just fine during that time.
I meet with Dave regularly. He is doing well and plans to return to public work at Grace October 1. He and Maggie request that you continue to pray and to allow them this time without calls and visits. Dave says often how deeply he appreciates the time, the support and the opportunity Grace has given him to recover, to refocus and to plan for future ministry with us.
We know you may have questions and concerns. We understand, and wish to answer those concerns directly and honestly. Please feel free to contact me by phone (891-2006) or by email. You may also contact Allison Rickman, director of operations at Grace at 891-2006, ext. 117 or by email.
Sincerely,
Josiah Bancroft
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