With Love, Nikki
Dear Church,
As a pastor, I mark my seasons through the rhythm of the church calendar. Summer is a slow time as folks retreat to cabins and lakes and backyards. A smattering of weddings dot the weekends as dander and dust line the extra seats on Sunday mornings. Fall fueled us to get back into our routines. Small groups, church classes, baptisms, training events popped up every week. In church work life, we’re planning for Christmas Eve in September, and we always ask ourselves, “wasn’t it just July?” In winter, we celebrate Christmas, plan for holy week, and practice gratitude as our winter weary bodies crave the long awaited sunlight. Then spring brings Easter and a few snowstorms to keep us humble.
For twenty years, this rhythm marked my calendar and this fall it will shift to something new. As of this fall, I will be marking new rhythms on a different career path. My next journey allows me to lead, care, and coach folks in the health and human services field. This feels good and beautiful for me.
Our church has found her steadiness after many years of tumultuous events. You, dear church, have steadied her. You’ve given her room to grow and breathe and recalibrate. And, right now, feels like the perfect time for me to exit stage left. I am grateful for your love, support and generosity. Sunday, August 25, will be my last service as your pastor. After some time off from service, I will be around as your friend and fellow congregant. I appreciate you all deeply. None of us should do life alone, and each of you make an impact on me and this church community.
May our God of all hope continually fill you with life and peace. And, may you know that you are beautifully and wonderfully made.
With love,
Nikki Sauter