Greetings, beloved church. I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for the gift of sabbatical. My prayer is that the rest, reorientation, and research this time allowed me will lead to our mutual benefit, as we continue to strive together to bear witness of the good news of Jesus Christ.

I am particularly glad to hear of the good reception to the preaching ministries of Emma, Mike, and Howard. It gives me great joy to know that their service to you was appreciated. My thanks to them for their extraordinary efforts over the summer!

I am also grateful for the hard work of Immanuel’s staff in leading during my absence – with a special shout-out to Jenny, who bore the brunt of keeping things going. It is encouraging to know I can confidently trust our staff to seek the church’s welfare at all times. I am grateful!

The Consistory’s leadership and support during my absence is also deeply appreciated. The hard work of managing the details of our church often goes unnoticed because it is done so well. My deepest thanks!

Last, but certainly not least, I am grateful for all the volunteers in any capacity who served over the summer. And finally, I am thankful to the entire church community for their faithful presence during my absence.

May God richly bless us as we seek to witness together of God’s grace and love revealed in the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ through the power of God’s Spirit!

Rich