For the past 10 years, Renee Leonard has faithfully served as director of children's ministries at Church of the Saviour. Recently, Renee informed the pastors, staff, Children's Ministries committee, and children's Sunday School class teachers that she will be ending her devoted and exemplary service in that position. God has a new path for her life and she will be leaving the position for new employment. Renee's service during weekdays will end on March 24, but she will continue to serve as director on Sundays through Easter.
Renee's devotion to children's ministries at Church of the Saviour has borne so much fruit. Her tenure has brought exciting new curricula to Sunday School classes, amazing growth to the summer Vacation Bible School program, and the start of the Breathe Respite ministry.
While it will be sad to see her leave the position and, as a congregation, we will miss her faithful service as director; we can't help but be happy when an exciting new path opens for someone that we all love so dearly. I'm excited to see where in this church she will next direct her faithfulness and energy as I'm sure God will show her a new way to serve. Renee and the entire Leonard family are not the type to just sit idly in the pews.
After Easter, we will have an opportunity to properly recognize and honor Renee's faithful service with a reception and a love offering. Over these next weeks, I'm sure that Renee would appreciate your prayers and words of support.
While it will be very hard to fill Renee's shoes, it's SPRC's job to do just that. We will be working with the Children's Ministries committee and Sunday School teachers to find interim leadership to ensure continuity for our children's Sunday School classes and for our amazing Vacation Bible School program. Then, we will work together with those ministry leaders to find a new permanent director. I am sure that God will guide us in those tasks. If you have any questions or thoughts regarding the search process, please feel free to speak with me or SPRC co-chair Daran Kiefer.
Many Church of the Saviour families have grown stronger in faith through Renee's dedication and her caring heart. We are thankful for Renee's years of faithful service and thrilled that she is continuing to answer God's call. May God continue to bless Renee and the Leonard family.
Shane Griest
Co-Chair, Staff Parish Relations Committee