Dear Friends,

What a privilege it is to call you friends — and companions on this journey in ministry.

As the seasons are changing, I’ve been thinking a lot about connections and how we can better maintain those connections. As the connectional church, we are blessed to have true relationships with our colleagues in ministry. We’ve maintained these connections during months of being confined to Zoom gatherings and virtual meetings. Now, as presbytery groups are starting to meet more in person, it has done my heart good to witness these re-connections, sharing time and space again.

And yet, as the winter months approach, our freedom to be outside is changing and most of us are going to be inclined to venture out less — especially when the snow comes and temperatures plummet.

Earlier this week, I heard someone say, “Some of the most important people that you’re going to meet in your life are in your future.”  I’d never thought of it that way before.

For those of us in ministry, seminary is now in our past.  Many of us have moved several or more times (I know I have!). It seems easy to believe that most of my closest relationships have already been formed.

But — I love the thought that I am still creating new friendships and new relationships.  My circle of connections continues to expand with new colleagues.

It’s possible that I haven’t met some of my best friends yet.

I’ve been thinking: This is part of God’s design.

I know that it can be so difficult for church workers to create and maintain relationships.  I hear that firsthand as I travel throughout the synod’s eight presbyteries. In fact, that’s one of the primary things I hear from our pastors.  They feel isolated, alone, disconnected.

And this feeling of isolation in leadership can be compounded in the winter months when the sun isn’t out and we get pressured with the busyness of Advent and All The Things.

I’m on a mission to create space for relationship-building in the synod — and beyond. This month we are launching a pilot program to form and deepen connections. You’re invited to participate in SOULstice!

I want pastors and faith leaders to have a space to find connection and momentum this winter.  This wellness experiment will run through February — not to help you become more productive, but to be more whole.

What’s SOULstice?

  • Six virtual gatherings led by Lois Annich (a coach and friend of SOLT) and me (Sara Dingman).
  • Small groups that will help you check-in at your own pace using the Marco Polo app.
  • A retreat in February (a gift of SOLT!) for participants to come together and enjoy meals, hikes, conversation — or whatever will do your soul good.

Want to learn more? Ready to sign up? Click here. The synod is covering the cost of the program.  I really hope you will join us.

Wherever you find yourself today, I’m praying good connections surround you.  Take care of yourself and your soul.  I’m so grateful to be in ministry with you.

Cheering you on,
Sara
Synod Executive