Rev Simon’s Study Leave 20th July for 2 months

Dear Friends,

I am writing to you to outline the details of my forthcoming study leave. It is a great privilege to be able to step away from ministry and day-to-day parish life and spend time reflecting on my Christian journey so far. From the 20th of July to the 20th of September, I will not be in day-to-day parish ministry. During this time Louise and Olivia and the wider church ministry team will be covering for me which I really appreciate. I will also be having time away from my Diocesan role as the lay ministry officer.

My time will have three distinct components. Firstly, I will be on an 8-day silent retreat at Saint Buenos the Jesuit Spirituality centre in North Wales. The longest I have been on a silent retreat up to now, has been three days! This will give me time to reflect, read, stop and pray. It will not be straight forward for me, but I am sure it will be incredibly good.

Secondly, I will be travelling to Hyderabad in India, which I last visited in 2019 to deliver some teaching and training with Indian pastors. Since that time, I have been keeping a connection, by running monthly online Bible studies. Finally, Louise and I will be on a road trip holiday.

My last study leave was in 2014 and I will not get another before I retire. It is a great gift to have time away from my Diocesan and parish work but not time away from God or family. Please pray for me that this gift would be something I build on and grow in. Please also pray and support Louise and Olivia especially during my time away.

With thanks for your understanding and ongoing prayers.

Love and Prayers

Simon