This year my study leave will be spread out differently than usual.  United Church ministers are allowed up to 21 days of study leave (and up to 3 Sundays).  Normally, I would use three separate weeks to get away to a retreat center but that is not currently possible.  I am choosing instead to audit a course (from Wesley Seminary in Washington, DC.) to update my knowledge on Trauma Informed Ministry.  I also will be joining a clergy reflection circle that meets 4 times a year.  It will mean spending Tuesday afternoons, January to May, in 'zoom' land and reading.  It is the equivalent to 11 days of study leave (but needs no Sundays away). 

This year my wider church work (what used to be made up of Presbytery and Conference meetings) will also take place online.  I am the supervisor for Hillcrest United Church in Fort Nelson as they have a student minister working with them.  THis work entails "going to" a Board meeting per month on Zoom.  I am also a Northern Spirit Regional Council representative to the national United Church's General Council meeting happening over the next 12 months, all online.  This will mean some evenings and three weekends of being together (while apart) and helping discern the future of the United Church.   For more information you can visit: https://united-church.ca/news/general-council-44-begins-february-13

Blessed be your 2022!