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SABBATICAL PREPARATION

March 5, 2006

In the last month, I have been working diligently to prepare the Interim Leadership Team for their role in the congregation. Penny, Susan, Mandi, Matt and Sarah have been gaining understanding about the role that they will be carrying in the congregation. I have been excited to see their excitement grow as the unfolding leadership opportunity begins to take shape.

In the month of March, the Congregational Leadership Team, the chairpersons of each Commission, the Pastor-Congregation Relations Committee, and the Interim Leadership Team members met together. This event is designed for the lay leaders and the Interim Leadership Team members to gain clarity concerning their working relationship.

Secondly, in March the Interim Leadership Team began to function. It was my intention to give them the most leadership opportunity possible in order to observe how they communicate, problem solve, and engage in ministry. During this month, coordinating decisions and problem solving was given to persons with specific ministry responsibilities. Penny was given administrative responsibilities. Susan was given worship planning coordination. Matt was given music leadership roles. Sarah Bixler, youth minister, and Sarah Kohrs, administrative assistant, began to experience supervision from Penny.

Members of the congregation have a significant role to play during this time of transition. First, affirm and pray for the Interim Leadership Team members. Second, direct your specific questions to the respective leadership persons and honor their counsel. Third, offer patience and compassion as Interim Leadership Team members grow into their role. Finally, recognize that transitions can be a time of uncertainty for leaders as they begin to understand the scope of their role.

I have worked with the Pastor-Congregation Relations Committee (PCRC) to develop a process for a leadership review during my sabbatical. It has been nearly two years since my last evaluation. I am deeply committed to openness in my ministry with the congregation and leaders about my effectiveness in ministry. The leadership assessment that I have worked on with members of PCRC will give members and lay leaders an opportunity to reflect on congregational vision, lay leadership awareness, and pastoral staff effectiveness. The PCRC is responsible for the leadership assessment process and they will provide feedback to the leaders of the congregation at the end of the assessment.

On a personal note, I want to acknowledge deep and sincere appreciation to you for the opportunities to serve the Zion Mennonite Church. I continue to find much fulfillment in my ministry and leadership opportunities in the congregation, the broader church, and the surrounding community. I have experienced much joy in ministry as the pastor of Zion Mennonite Church. Upon return from my sabbatical, I am looking forward to the next semester of our relationship that will provide a good balance between leadership challenges and fulfillment of vision expectations in the congregation.

With sincere appreciation,

Clyde G. Kratz