Jennifer Jones Awarded a Sabbatical for Renewal by the Vestry

Dear Saint Stephen’s,

I want to share some news with you about a well-deserved opportunity for rest and renewal. This spring, our vestry explored how to care for our staff especially looking at our long-term program staff who have served over ten years.  I am delighted to share, that our vestry approved our Director of Children’s Formation, Jennifer Jones taking a summer sabbatical from June 23 through August 24. This is time approved and supported by our vestry as part of our commitment to sustaining healthy, life-giving ministry.

Sabbatical is a gift of time—a chance to step away from the rhythms of daily work in order to reflect, grow, and return refreshed. Jennifer has served our children and families with deep care, creativity, and consistency, and we are grateful for all the ways this ministry has flourished under her leadership since 2012. This sabbatical is a way of saying thank you, and of investing in Jennifer’s continued well-being and ministry.

Our children’s program has grown to have over 200 active children aged 0-12 who are actively involved in worship, formation, and ministry.  I am grateful that we have been able to expand our children’s formation team.  Searcy Sledge will coordinate children’s chapel this summer and both Searcy and Jennifer have already been at work to prepare for an exciting fall for our children. 

For now, please join me in offering your prayers and blessings as Jennifer prepares for this time of sabbath.

Faithfully,

The Rev. John B. Burruss, Rector