I am both excited and nervous to begin my three-month sabbatical this month. While some of the plans from my initial proposal still stand, others have changed, as one might expect in this time of covid. But this time of rest and study is much needed and is so very appreciated by my family and by me. 

I still intend to study the Celtic blessing way through the writings and poetry of John O’Donohue and David Whyte. I will also be traveling to Ireland to experience the fierce and beautiful landscape from which such a powerful theology came to life. I will be there for 40 days (this was unintentional, but I love it!) and will do two long-distance walks while there. The first is around the Kerry Peninsula on the Kerry Way, and the second is through the Burren, beginning in Ballyvaughan and ending along the Cliffs of Moher. I also have a time of learning and study out on the Aran Islands with Celtic priest Dara Ó Maoildhia planned, for which I am very excited. 

Unfortunately, both the Corrymela Community and the Abbey at Iona cannot take me as a guest. But I will still study their works and their reconciliation process, and with some luck might find a way to cross their thresholds. We shall see. 

I am so grateful to serve a church that is so supportive and generous to its ministers. Thank you for your love and your encouragement for my family and me in this brief time apart. You will be in my heart and in my prayers each day. 

Should you require any assistance or guidance for any of the boards or committees I oversee, please contact the church office. Bromleigh and Talia have divided oversight duties for all my boards, and our board chairs are more than equipped to ensure our ongoing success. Thank you!

Andy Bachmann’s sabbatical runs from September 1–December 1. We wish him grace and peace on his journey!