I remember my father saying “a change is as a good as a rest,” and I certainly hope that holds true since there is a lot going on during this month of October for my study leave/sabbatical. My current projects include:
– completing the copy-editing stage of my book manuscript – going over these details isn’t quite as much fun as looking at cover options (see here for a preview of the cover), but I’m glad for this stage that brings me one step closer to publication. Sacred Pauses: spiritual practices for personal renewal is scheduled for release February 2013.
– writing a piece for Leader magazine on how to study the Bible to be published Spring 2013 – aimed at young adults and adults on how to study the Bible at home on their own.
– completing another week of Rejoice! columns – to be published Summer 2013.
– reviewing Claiming Faith (a new youth curriculum on the Confession of Faith) from the perspective of Anabaptist theology and making comments as part of the editorial process pre-publication.
– beginning a series of sermons for CSS Publishing – to be published in 2014.
I’m not sure if all of this is exactly a rest, but yes, it’s a change–a change to study time, sabbatical time, a time to step back from the regular demands of ministry, a time for a different rhythm. Thank you to everyone in the congregation for this precious gift.