Greetings church. I realize it’s been a minute since my last Kairos update, and there’s a lot to share.
First, about the interim work. I’ve been fielding many questions about the timeline and if we’re “behind” the curve. We are in no way behind any curve. In fact, your Nominating Committee is right now putting together an amazing plan for assembling the search team. Next spring, they will have a slate to present to the congregation at the annual meeting. Empaneling a search committee requires a congregational vote and lots of transparency, which then kicks off the search season starting later in 2026.
There is therefore wisdom in doing a two-year search. For a one-year search, a search team really needs to be up and running by the start of the church year. We would be behind the curve if that were the case! Spreading out the search lowers our anxiety because we have ample time to do the important spiritual work of discernment. An interim period isn’t a process to get through, but one that invites us into the big and important questions that can shape the next several decades of your ministry and work together: Who are we as a church and agent of change in the community? Where have we been historically, and where do we want to be? What unchangeable features of our community are essential to who we are, and where are we curious about change and new ideas?” And so many more!
I am your guide through the interim process, and Rev. Joyce and I have divided our portfolios to make this happen. She is the primary point of contact for pastoral care, membership, and community. My portfolio focuses on worship, preaching, interim work, and leadership engagement. We have you covered.
Something I do want to clear up is regarding my schedule and time. Generally, I’m “on the clock” Sunday through Thursday. No, I do not just work on Tuesdays; that’s just when I’m most often in the office for meetings and appointments. I’m also at church a couple of Wednesdays throughout the month (more meetings and appointments), plus the occasional weekend evening for important social events like the auction. I work from home the rest of the week, taking Friday as sabbath and Saturday as my day off to watch Belle and Dorothy, my two granddaughters. Even though I’m not full-time, I’m checking and answering email throughout the week and am available for phone and Zoom calls.
So far, so good! We are moving along “at the speed of church,” and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of your journey.
Rev. Bret Lortie