Sabbatical Season for Rev. Shorow
Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow Begins Five-Week Sabbatical for Renewal
Dear friends, I’m writing to share that I’m about to depart on a five-week sabbatical leave. Beginning Monday, June 30, I will step away from my daily duties and return to the pulpit on Sunday, August 3.
I’m deeply grateful to our church Board and Personnel Committee for not only allowing but encouraging this time away. After several dynamic years of ministry—especially in the whirlwind following COVID—this moment invites a faithful pause. Together, we’ve navigated change, responded to needs, and continued growing in community. I’m so thankful to be serving with you.
As many know, our extended family has also faced some challenges in recent months that have required attention and care. As that season settles, I’m looking forward to re-centering and listening more deeply to the quiet stirrings of God so I can return refreshed for the season ahead.
Together, with the leadership of our church, we’ve discerned that this is a good time for me to pause, take a brief renewal leave, and catch my breath.
Our worship series for July is called THRIVE: What Are You Growing Toward? From the rhythms of Sabbath woven into the creation story to Jesus’ own patterns of retreat and renewal, scripture shows us that thriving comes only with intentional rest. This sabbatical is one way I’m trying to live that truth.
While I’m away, the life of our church will continue to thrive. You’ll hear faithful, gifted voices from the pulpit and experience the ministries and community that make this place so special. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a dedicated and talented staff. I’m thankful every day for colleagues who see their work not just as a job, but as a calling to embody God’s love in the world.
During this time, I’ll be stepping away fully—including from email, texts, and calls—but our pastoral staff is ready to offer care and support when needed. Please know you can always reach out to John, Mark, or Iris.
I invite your prayers during this time, and I offer mine in return—that these next few weeks might help all of us grow toward a deeper awareness that we are loved not for what we produce, earn, or strive for, but simply because we are God’s children. Thank you for this opportunity.
Peace,
Chris