From the Co-Pastors

Dear Friends,

As some of you know, I will be on sabbatical this summer from May 8th through August 7th.  I am grateful to have this time away and I want to thank you and the Session for your long tradition of supporting clergy sabbaticals here at Montview.

I am happy to report that I received a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment’s Clergy Renewal Program (see www.lillyendowment.org/religion).  The purpose of these grants is to allow clergy to step aside for a few months from leading and caring for a congregation, and instead pursue something completely different that “makes our hearts sing.”  For me, masonry has captured my imagination and my passion in recent years, and I am eager to pursue my dream of building a 10’ by 10’ solid stone shed in my backyard that I will use as a “hermitage” – a place to write, pray and meditate.  I look forward to sharing pictures of it with you when I return (provided it is still standing).  During my time away, I will also refresh my spirit by taking three trips; one to New Mexico with my family, one to British Columbia with Laura, and one by myself as part of a backpacking trip/retreat in the Four Corners area.

Part of the grant will cover expenses at Montview for increased staff support while I am away.  We are very fortunate that the Rev. Dr. Belden Lane has agreed to come to Denver from St. Louis University where he serves as a professor in the Theology Department.  Dr. Lane is an ordained Presbyterian minister and a well-known author. He will serve at Montview during my absence for 20 hours a week, preaching regularly, helping in the office and teaching a class.  I know Dr. Lane personally and cannot speak highly enough about him.  We are very fortunate to have him come and I have no doubt that Montview is in for an exciting summer.

I look forward to returning with fresh ideas and fresh energy to share with you as we continue this journey together to better know God’s grace and love.

Blessings on the way,
Greg