Hello Alderwood!
Sabbatical. That is what our last three months have consisted of. Rick and I have been on Cru staff 41 & 43 years respectively. Long term staff like ourselves are now awarded a 3-month sabbatical every five years. We’ve never taken that length of time before and we felt it was high time that we did. Sabbatical is a time set apart from the grind and stress of daily life and ministry. It’s a time of focusing on God, for rest, reflection, and things that bring you joy and refreshment.
As many of you know, we spent almost 20 years serving in France with Cru and two of our four children (and a daughter-in-law) live there in the same region where they grew up. We decided to split our time between France and here in the beautiful Pacific NW. The time in France was spent being with our kids, seeing friends and former colleagues, and spending time in some of our favorite parts of Brittany where we lived. We also had the privilege to visit some of our former students (one who is now a pastor) and some of the original staff whom we started with in Lyon 30 years ago! In addition, we were able to walk a part of the Saint James Way pilgrimage for a week in the French countryside. We saw magnificent scenery and were full of awe and praise to God for His grand and beautiful creation. Even though our time in France was a bit more active, we were refreshed and filled with so much joy!
Then back home in Lynnwood, we were able to spend extended time with God and in prayer and reflection. In this season of life, we want more of Jesus and less of us. Having extra times of silence and slowing down has allowed us to hear more of God’s heart and things that He needs to say to us regarding our own personal walks with Him. This time has helped us to continue to grow in Him and be purposeful as we continue in ministry. It has been such an incredible gift from Him!
With thanksgiving,
Rick & Lisa

with Mallory & Nico

with Nico & Ju

St. James Way

Lisa on St. James Way

St. James Way (Conques)

with Elo & Fred

with Linda, Anne and Noella

Rick’s 65th Birthday