The heart of my call as synod minister is shepherding leadership formation for seminarians in the ELCA candidacy process and supporting both clergy and lay ministers in healthy service. In order to serve the church with wisdom and flexibility in a time of rapid change, it is imperative to be steeped in that which has lasting value and staying power. Over the centuries Paul’s Letter to the Romans and the Rule of Benedict have proven to be two of the most important writings for Christian faith and life. These writings will form the framework for my sabbatical, praying the Rule and Romans daily using a prepared lectionary.
I will engage in these intentional rhythms of Benedictine life while relating to monasteries in Rome and Duluth. Daily walking will balance the meditative portions of each day. Hiking with my husband and granddaughters at Holden Village will mark a new annual trek together. After experiencing ancient spiritual rhythms in sacred places, I anticipate entering a second term as synod minister in the next chapter of my professional and personal life, “walking in newness of life” (Romans 6:4)
in Jesus Christ.