Fr. Marty’s 2019 Sabbatical

The sabbatical is an
important event in the life of both priest and
congregation. It is one of the most effective ways for clergy
and congregation to maintain a long-term
relationship.

Fr. Marty’s “Send-Off Sunday” will be at the end of June when we will present him with the box of cards and letters from all of you (see below).

The vestry wishes to thank all who have been able to financially support Fr. Marty’s Sabbatical. We are just short of our goal… as of May 1st you have raised a total of $43,575!

AMAZING!

If you would still like to give and are able, please see the directions below.

Fr. Marty’s Sabbatical Q&A

Q: What can I do to show my support?
A: We would like everyone to write a card or a letter to let Fr. Marty know how he has affected your life and how he is valued. We’ll give them to him on the Sunday before he goes to read and reflect on while he’s away. You can either drop them in the narthex “Sabbatical” box, hand or mail them to Rev. Wendy.

Q: How can I give??
A: You can give online at StJoesWeb.org. Click the ONLINE GIVING link, select “Other” and put “Sabbatical” in the comments box to make sure we receive the matching. OR… Just place a check in the plate with Sabbatical in the memo line.

Q: Why $45,000?
A: That’s the amount that we used for the grant requests. It was based on the travel, courses and retreats that Fr. Marty hoped to experience during his time away.

Q: Can my gift be written off on my taxes?
A: Yes, just like any other donation to St. Joseph’s.

Q: How long will Fr. Marty be away?
A: Approximately 15 weeks over the summer of 2019.

Q: When will it start?
A: Current plan is to start the first week of July and run through mid-October.

Q: Who will be taking his place?
A: For services and pastoral needs it will be Rev. Wendy with help from Rev. Mary. Also, there will be a time or two when an outside priest may officiate such as for the Food for the Poor Sunday.

Q: What about the business of the church?
A: The Senior Warden, Dianne Williams, is in charge with the help of Rev. Wendy, the Jr. Warden, Ric Filer and the vestry. You should see no change in the day-to-day operations.

Q: What if I need to talk to him while he’s gone?
A: The purpose of a sabbatical is to be completely away. We want to encourage Fr. Marty to receive the spiritual renewal, rest and care for his soul that will bring him back to us refreshed and with a new passion for his journey with us. We’ll miss him of course but we need to do our best to give him this gift. Any urgent needs should be addressed through the church office, Rev. Wendy or the Senior Warden.

Please see any vestry member if you have further questions