One of my greatest rewards of fellowship at FPC is the sermons of our pastor, Arthur Fogartie. I always sit in anticipation as I know each will be engaging, challenging, thoughtful, and even enjoyable. First, Art has a voice that could just as easily broadcast the news or sports. He is also blessed with a manner of delivery that is sometimes comic, often dramatic, and always animated. But I think you will all agree with me that it is the depth of thought and keen intellect that is at the core of each and every sermon.

Wisely, when Art was called in 2004, the Congregation determined that he would receive a sabbatical every six years. Next year, 2010, Art will suspend his responsibilities at the pulpit and spend three months thinking. Yes, thinking, for that is the goal of a sabbatical. Those of you involved in higher education are familiar with the sabbatical concept. It is first and foremost a time for academics to work and research and read outside the day-to-day responsibilities of teaching. In the museum community, forward thinking museums provide sabbaticals for their curators; again, a time to learn and think and ponder and consider. Sabbaticals are a time to re – reflect, reconnect, revive, renew, refresh.

Art’s sabbatical will commence after Worship on May 9. The Personnel Committee has requested that Art take half of his annual leave at the same time. During Art’s absence, Bill Henning (who was our Interim after Gordon Garlington’s departure) will fill the pulpit every week and provide pastoral care. Art will return to the pulpit on the fourth Sunday in August.

I am proud to be able to support this important aspect of the life of our Church. For I know it is us – the congregation – who ultimately reap the reward of an even more learned and reflective pastor. And I am certain he will return to the pulpit with even more great stories and maybe even a few new jokes.

Bob Workman
Stewardship Chair