Friends,

We are so blessed to be in community with all of you! This summer has been a busy and exciting season at Salt House. From Pride Sunday, to our awesome Eastside Block Party, to a fun Queer River Float, we are grateful for all the ways you all are showing up. This community knows what it means to live as the Kingdom of God.

On Sunday, Pastor Sara announced that she will be taking six months of medical leave to address several health related concerns. This comes at the recommendation of her doctor, the recommendation of our personnel committee, and the approval of our council. Her leave starts Monday, July 17 and will go through the middle of January. Watch the video above about why these next six months are important for her health and recovery.

As Pastor Sara mentions in the video, we as a community are ready for this! God is going to do good and sacred things in our midst. If you have questions about the details here are a few things to know.

Publicly, you will see more of Pastor Ryan and Pastor Zach in worship. Pastor Ryan will be designing the sermon series, and they will both be preaching more often. They will also both be available for more pastoral coffees and small group events. There will also be a team of women identifying preachers who will rotate through our preaching schedule. (And Jason and the band will continue to rock it on Sundays!)

Behind the scenes, Pastor Kathryn Buffum will be managing Pastor Sara’s administrative duties including leading staff meetings and interacting with the council and synod. Pastor Kathryn brings a wealth of experience from her time in both parish ministry and synod leadership. We are so grateful she is coming out of retirement to help us!

The impact of this on our budget is minimal as our council has plans in place for when called leadership is in-need of leave. Sarah Urie (council president) and Irwin Dolobowsky (treasurer) are able to speak to the details if you have questions.

We know that God does good things when churches are asked to function differently. We are grateful for all of you and excited to see how you will show up, grow, and thrive in these next six months— and beyond! If you have any questions, our staff and council leadership are always available.

With immense gratitude for YOU,

Your Salt House Staff & Council