Sabbatical Reflections: Returning with Gratitude

Michelle, Casey, and I spent the past seven weeks exploring Canada during my summer sabbatical—reconnecting with family, reflecting, and basking in the beauty of my homeland. We were fortunate to experience both the east and west coasts and many places in between, including Vancouver, Victoria, Montreal, Quebec City, and Newfoundland, along with a brief journey through the northeastern United States, visiting Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

One of the greatest gifts of the trip was the opportunity to spend time with family members we hadn’t seen in many years. We shared meals, stories, and memories—and even had the wonderful chance to stay at Adam Burbidge’s apartment in Montreal! It was also such a joy to watch Casey grow and discover the world around him. He showed incredible adaptability: He took a total of 10 flights this summer, slept in 9 different rooms and cribs, and somehow managed to sleep through the night every single night!

One of the things I learned during this time away was the importance of retreat, reflection, and renewal. We all experience seasons when we feel exhausted or stretched thin, but taking intentional time for rest, prayer, and connection helps us rediscover the strength and joy that God continually offers us.

I return feeling refreshed and excited for the year of music and liturgy ahead here at St. Bart’s. Our season begins on September 13 with our Deep Resonance concert, and I hope you’ll join us for this special performance for men’s voices led by Tim McLellan. If you haven’t already, please consider becoming a Friends of Music subscriber and helping support the ministry of music that enriches our worship and community life.

I am deeply grateful to the staff and volunteers who helped make my sabbatical possible, especially Anna Lettang and Ella Crane for leading our musical theatre summer camp, and Anna, Tim McLellan, Seiran Sohn, Chris Cook, and Joanne Stohs for faithfully leading our weekly services. It is truly a blessing to serve alongside such dedicated and generous people who help keep our parish thriving—even when we are away.

Thank you for welcoming me home. I look forward to sharing another wonderful year of worship, music, and ministry together!

John-Luke Addison