The PCUSA Pilgrim Pastor

May 30, 2024

I can’t believe it’s finally here. When pastors are called to churches in the PCUSA a sabbatical is usually part of that call. After 7 seven years she is granted the opportunity of a 3 month sabbatical. This time away is intended for rest, renewal, and spiritual growth. I have served King’s Grant for 9 1/2 years now and today the adventure begins.

I don’t know about you but the day of a big trip is full of last minute details. Besides the final packing a did some cleaning, some much needed office filing (you can actually see my desk now), some downloading of reading and spiritual practices, and few goodbyes to church members and family. I’m happy to say the list of things-to-do actually got done!

Because this first month is all about being a pilgrim, I wanted to pack simply. So for the next four weeks I will be living out of a carry on roller bag and hiking backpack which is half filled. Actually, the backpack mostly has food, papers, and electronics.

I packed my tried and true roller bag only to find out after I went through security that this is the one with the broken wheel. Oh it rolls, but it’s kind of like a flat tire. It’s wobbly and bumpy when I’m walking. One person suggested I buy a new one when I get to Europe. But that’s not the pilgrim way. Pilgrims are grateful for the simple things in life. I have a suitcase that transports my stuff from one place to another. I am grateful. Whenever I roll it and it’s not perfectly smooth, I will remember all I have to be grateful for including this once-in-lifetime trip to Europe. Plus, maybe this bag is kind of like life and like us. Nothing is ever perfectly smooth all the time. There are always bumps, wobbles, and busted parts of ourselves, relationships and situations. But instead of giving up, perhaps we could practice gratefulness and remember those who have no suitcase or take no trips.

My first stop is Washington D.C. before waking up from my second flight in Paris. It’s hard to leave behind family, routine, friends, responsibilities, and the church. Harder than I thought, actually. But as the sun sets I am comforted that it will rise again, the daily rhythm of death and resurrection. And the Resurrected One can never be left behind.