Reporting to our leadership teams in March, I felt it was important to share what is happening in the coming months. I wrote,

This Sunday we enter Holy Week, when we remember the center and core events in our faith journey as followers of Jesus. I am also aware that, culturally, we barely have time to pause at any one moment or season on the calendar. Right or wrong, we are almost always looking ahead.

     Now that we are on the far side of Easter Sunday, even though the season continues, we are devoting new energy to some important matters. At the Council meeting Tuesday, March 18, we made the decision to move forward in conversation with a delegation from the West Seattle Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Their pastor, president, and others came to the meeting to discuss a proposal for their weekly rental of the sanctuary and other spaces. While there are some significant challenges that would come with sharing space in this way, and while many questions remain, Council members voted to continue the dialogue. In addition to this request, the Council heard reports of initial meetings with architects who have met with a small group exploring plans for building upgrades and remodeling. A special congregational meeting has been called for Sunday, April 13th, following worship. At this point, one or both of these subjects will be part of the agenda.

     In addition to these important matters, we are putting together the different pieces to ensure that this ministry will continue to flourish during my sabbatical. In regard to Sunday morning, The Rev. Dr. Kendall Baker has graciously agreed to cover almost all of the Sundays I am away. He will be doing most of what I customarily do during the service, with the Worship Team assisting. As far as pastoral care is concerned, Kendall will be available for extreme emergencies. Otherwise, the responsibility for ongoing parish care will rest with our Parish Care Team led by Leonette Carte, and including Janice Milliman, now on staff as our Parish Care Associate. Janice's hours will be somewhat extended during the sabbatical period.

     Pat Shaver and I are working to develop a fairly complete overview of what I do to help "keep things going" daily, monthly, and on special occasions. Along with our church officers, she is going to need to rely on team chairs, team members, and all of you to be sure the usual church operations go smoothly and that the inevitable unexpected questions and challenges are addressed. As Office Manager, she is often the first point of contact but, particularly when I 'm away, she'll need others to share in responding to the needs that arise.

     The months ahead are going to be a different kind of season, but I know God will continue to lead and guide in the midst of decision making and as we seek discernment. And God will be with us all during my time away.

      May the blessings of Easter continue to fill your hearts.

                                   Pastor Terry Teigen