Almost two months ago, Pastor Dave and Lanette left for a much needed sabbatical after serving Morgan Hill Bible Church for over 15 years straight. All of us at Morgan Hill Bible Church were so excited for them to explore, rest, and grow together while they are away. But we sure do miss them! Here’s an update from Pastor Dave 6 weeks into their sabbatical:
We started our time in Phoenix, spending a few days with Lanette’s parents. They seem to be failing more (mentally/physically) each time we see them. We were able to have some conversation with Lanette’s siblings about future care for them. Then we went to NYC and went to Redeemer’s “Faith and Work” intensive. It was a great week, was definitely an “intensive,” but really enjoyed the time and see some great things we could be doing to live out our faith in the marketplace in a way that influences the culture of our work and the hearts of those around us. I’m grateful for that time.
That weekend we met the kids (and granddaughter) in NJ and enjoyed the weekend with them, then later that week, we went to a Giants/Mets game. I’m happy to report that my granddaughter, Sylvia (“Sylvie”), got to experience her first baseball game in a Giants jersey and helped us to cheer Madison Bumgarner to a win! To top it off, “Maddie” threw a ball into the stands, which Lanette caught and now Sylvie has a game ball from her first baseball game. Just need to get it signed someday! (I thought this was an important update for you!!)
We then flew to London and had a wonderful time there seeing all the sites and visiting a number of churches, including taking in “Evensong”… in churches that have had worship daily since the 7th century. Many have lost the soul of the gospel, but you can see the Lord continuing to be at work. We then drove (which was an interesting experience) to Bath (ancient Roman encampment), then drove through the Cotswolds to Oxford and spent some days there, touring churches, colleges, etc. The highlight was spending time at C.S. Lewis' home and learning more about his character, thinking and life. We were grateful for that time! We then drove back to London and took the train to Paris, and had 3.5 days in that beautiful city.
We’ve been home for a couple of days to catch our breath. The trip so far, has been good to disconnect, tour and take classes, but now we are looking forward to some time to refresh, reflect, read, re-create. We are flying to Charleston, SC and have time at a house that’s been donated for us to use on Edisto Island. We will be there the next three weeks. There are hurricanes brewing, so we’d appreciate your prayers that way…and that we can continue to receive from the Lord what he has for us.
—Pastor Dave
Thanks for keeping us in the loop, guys! We miss you and can’t wait to hear more about all the incredible things you’ve seen and learned. Have a safe trip to the East Coast!
