Clergy renewal

EDITOR’S NOTE: Sabbaticals are typically taken every seven years and are intended to be a time for rest and renewal. Mtr Taylor will take a 12-week sabbatical beginning Monday, April 8. While she will return to the office on Monday, July 1, she will leave with the pilgrims for England on Friday, July 5. She will be back in the office on Monday, July 22.

By Mtr Taylor Devine

While away I plan to focus on three parts of personal renewal: rest, story, and creativity.

For example, I will attend a Christian Formation conference focused on storytelling, enjoy fellowship and collegiality at the annual Young Clergy Women International conference, and—along with some slower-paced time with family—gain some cooking skills and explore a few other creative pursuits. I feel fortunate to be able to take this time to rest, reflect, and rejuvenate for the next season of ministry together at Saint Philip’s.

To support the growing Children, Youth, and Families Ministry (CYFM) and to support Saint Philip’s formation goals, Kate Appel has joined the staff part-time as the Pilgrimage & Special Formation Projects Assistant.

During my absence Kate will ensure that nursery coordination continues, and that the last pieces of 2024 Residency & Pilgrimage planning are taken care of. She will also coordinate with the CYFM Commission to conclude the formation year, and to launch the summer’s formation opportunities. Kate will also address a few other special projects on tap to help welcome new families in the fall to CYFM.

I am very grateful to Kate for accepting this position. We will benefit from her experience with projects and events, and her grace in relationships.

If you have questions about my sabbatical please email me at taylor.devine@stphilipstucson.org. If you need support from the church during my sabbatical and I would be your normal contact, please call the office at 520-299-6421 or send an email to office@stphilipstucson.org. Mtr Mary and Fr Robert will remain available to connect you to pastoral resources as needed.

A bit about Kate Appel
My family and I have been part of Saint Philip’s community for over 6 years and are blessed to call the parish home. As a homeschooling-mother of five children (ages 9-17), I am very invested in the spiritual growth and education of children of all ages. I am excited to be able to facilitate the ongoing formational work of CYFM and to continue my spiritual journey with all of you! You can reach me at kate.appel@stphilipstucson.org.

You can read Kate’s recent interview as part of the “In conversation…” series by clicking here.