Our Mission

Message from The Manse

My sabbatical was a deeply enriching and restorative experience, giving me valuable space to step away from the normal rhythms and demands of ministry and to reflect on my faith, my calling and my leadership.

A significant part of the sabbatical was travelling extensively by train through Europe. 

Without a fixed itinerary, I had to learn to live more fully in the present moment, responding to delays, changes and unexpected detours. This taught me to become more comfortable with uncertainty and to focus my energy on what I can influence rather than becoming frustrated by things beyond my control. I believe this is something I can carry directly into ministry and leadership.

The highlight of the sabbatical was undoubtedly walking the Camino from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela. I had expected to walk with a group but discovered on arrival that I would be making the pilgrimage alone. What initially caused anxiety became a profound spiritual experience. The solitude gave me precious time for prayer and reflection, while encounters with fellow pilgrims developed into friendships and mutual encouragement. Arriving in Santiago and attending the Pilgrim Mass was a deeply moving experience. Looking back, I recognised how God had accompanied and sustained me throughout the journey, particularly in moments of uncertainty and solitude.

The sabbatical also challenged me personally and helped me understand the importance of adapting to others while also recognising when it is right to stand by one’s own judgement. Through journalling and reflection, I was able to understand issues of challenge more clearly and develop healthier ways of responding. This has strengthened my resilience, self-awareness and empathy.

Being a stranger in unfamiliar countries also gave me a deeper appreciation of what it feels like to struggle with language and culture. Not being able to understand signs, conversations or humour with ease can leave one feeling isolated and vulnerable. This has prompted me to think more carefully about how we can make worship and church life more accessible and welcoming to people whose first language is not English, and about the importance of cultural sensitivity more generally.

My reading and Bible study were beneficial, encouraging me to notice God in ordinary experiences and to think afresh about what it means to walk with God. 

There was also plenty of opportunity simply to relax and enjoy myself! Learning to make fresh pasta in Bologna was a particular highlight—and a reminder of the importance of food, hospitality, conversation and sharing life around a table. Even axe throwing in Frankfurt had its place, reminding me that rest also involves trying something completely different, laughing at yourself and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Perhaps most importantly, the sabbatical has renewed my sense of calling. I return to ministry with greater patience, humility, spiritual attentiveness and resilience. 

I have returned with a stronger awareness of our responsibility to care for creation and a desire to explore how sustainability, inclusion and hospitality can become more intentional parts of church life.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have undertaken this sabbatical and for the support of the pastorate that made it possible.

My hope is that what I have learned, and the ways in which I have grown, will not remain simply personal benefits, but will continue to enrich my ministry, our shared life as a church, and the journeys of faith we make together.

Ruth