Pastor Diane Sponheim To Take Sabbatical

Period of April 21 – July 13, 2014

Shepherd of the Valley supports the eligibility of a 12-week sabbatical for ELCA rostered staff leaders after seven years of service. A sabbatical is a time of leave from regular duties for rest, personal growth, reflection, study and renewal. Shepherd of the Valley’s ministry has greatly benefitted over the years by its rostered staff leaders being able to return from sabbaticals refreshed and revitalized.

Pastor Diane has been approved by the Church Council to partake in this important practice. Her studies will encompass pastoral leadership, faith practices and preaching. She will also spend time travelling and focusing on quality family time. This will be her first sabbatical.

During her sabbatical, Pastor Diane’s regular pastoral duties and tasks will be taken up by other pastors, staff members, and volunteers. We are also currently working with our Synod leaders to identify an Interim Associate to assist with worship and congregational care. This interim role may extend beyond Pastor Diane’s sabbatical period to assist while Pastor Chris and Pastor Randy lead back-to-back trips to Tanzania in July and August. 

Please keep Pastor Diane and her family in your prayers during this time of sabbatical. We are grateful for her years of service and happy to support her ministry in this important way.

Further updates will be communicated as they become available.