Dear New Community Bible Fellowship Family,

I greet you with love and gratitude as we prepare for a very special season in the life of our church.  

As you have probably heard, I will begin a 4-month sabbatical this May through September. A sabbatical is an opportunity for a pastor to take time away from the pulpit and normal ministry duties and then focus on his own spiritual renewal and refreshment. It is a gift that inevitably strengthens both the pastor and the church.

This sabbatical has been recommended by my Senior Pastor Accountability Board.  It has been affirmed by our elders and agreed upon by our membership.  It was officially announced at our 30 Year Gala Celebration in September 2024.  

We are grateful that funding for this sabbatical was awarded by the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program!  I am especially thankful to all the members, staff and Sabbatical Committee who diligently helped with the application process. It was not easy, but God blessed us to receive this honored endowment!

During my pastoral sabbatical, here are some of the key ways I will invest my time:

1. Personal Renewal - Restful study and prayer
   
2. Family - Retreat time with my wife and children
   
3. Visionary - Prayerful Reflection on New Community's Vision & Future
   
4. Travel - Travel to enhance my ministry and life
   

The leaders and staff have planned so that New Community will continue thriving during these four months of me being away. For pulpit ministry, we've lined up a dynamic group of guest speakers, along with our own pastors.  This summer we plan to provide special sermons that will help our members learn better rhythms of rest for their own personal renewal.  Also, our vision to Go Beyond will not slow down. We have great opportunities lined up for children, teens, adults, and families to grow in faith and serve together.

I want to encourage from the bottom of my heart to remain faithful in three key ways:

1. Faithful in Attendance – Stay connected and engaged in New Community's events.
   
2. Faithful in Serving – Your gifts and presence are essential for ministry to flourish.
   
3. Faithful in Giving – Your generosity sustains our mission and expands our reach.
   

I can’t thank you enough for allowing me this opportunity for continued growth. I will take everything I learn during this time and use it to help New Community keep excelling as a great church.

I can’t wait to see how God will use this season to take us to the next level!  

Again, thank you so much!  If you still have questions, we have linked a FAQ sheet to help.  If there is some other item you want to discuss, please don’t hesitate to ask me or the officers of the church. 

With deep appreciation and great expectation,  

Pastor Kevin