September- October 2025

Dear All Saints’ Family and Friends,

I pray that, during these summer months, you were able to carve out time to slow down and unwind, to try new activities and adventures, and to reconnect with loved ones. Experts tell us that taking time off from our busy everyday lives result in better health, greater happiness and improved job performance. The practice is also lifted up in scripture. We read in Genesis 2:2-3, that God rested on the seventh day. Also, Jesus modeled taking breaks, and he encouraged his disciples to do the same as part of their ministry. He said to them, “Come away … and rest a while.” (Mark 6:31)

I am thankful that the Episcopal Church provides opportunities for clergy to take time for rest, reflection, and renewal. Here in our diocese, in addition to vacation days and retreats, clergy are usually offered a 3-month sabbatical after six years of ministry in a parish. Having achieved this milestone, I have decided to take my sabbatical in two parts: 6 weeks this fall (October 16 – November 28) and 6 weeks in the spring of 2026. I plan to spend some of my sabbatical traveling to visit family, worshipping in the pews with other congregations, reading some of the many unopened books in my library, and for spiritual renewal. My prayer is that I will return refreshed and recharged for ongoing parish ministry.

There is no doubt that the busy and vibrant parish life here at All Saints’ will continue while I am away. Our capable Wardens and Vestry members have been aware of these plans for some months now, and they will continue to provide oversight of our finances and governance. We have many experienced lay leaders for worship, Christian formation, as well as other ministries and outreach programs. And, of course, we are blessed with faithful members who step up to serve in various capacities when needed. In addition, supply priests will lead Holy Eucharist for half the Sundays and Christine Scott, our seminarian, along with our Eucharistic Ministers will lead Morning Prayer on the other Sundays. There will also be a priest on call in case of a pastoral emergency. The Wardens will only contact me should something extraordinary arise.

I am truly grateful for the gift of this time away. I thank you for your support and ask for your prayers. Be assured that I will be praying for you, trusting that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide and empower you to carry out our mission of worship, study, fellowship, and service to each other and the wider community.

Yours in Christ,

The Rev. Maxine Barnett, Rector