The Gift of Renewal
Over the years, I’ve come to learn that renewal is more than just rest. It’s about resetting my soul—intentionally stepping back so I can reconnect with God, with my purpose, and with the people I love most.
Renewal is about getting out of the rhythm of constant doing so I can return to simply being. It means making time—real time—to practice the means of grace: worship, scripture, nature, journaling, prayer, and stillness. It’s where I find space to hear the Spirit again and to stay in love with God.
This summer, I’ve been given the incredible gift of a renewal leave, from June 10 through August 1. I’m so grateful to the church and to our conference for making this possible—through your support and through a grant that makes this time of rest sustainable for everyone.
Over these weeks, I’ll be spending time on the beach and hiking in the mountains—two places where I feel especially connected to God’s presence in creation. I’ll be journaling, reading, and reflecting on a rule of life that can guide me in the year ahead. Most of all, I’ll be making space to listen for God’s voice; to ask the questions I don’t always have time to ask in the middle of weekly sermon writing and pastoral care.
Don’t get me wrong—I love what I do, and I love this church. But even in joyful service, it’s easy to move into reaction mode—always preparing, always showing up, always doing. My hope is that this summer will help me move from reaction to renewal. From constant motion to deeper reflection. From busy to better.
And I hope the same for you.
Because renewal isn’t just for pastors. It’s for all of us.
So, this week, I’d like to ask you a few questions:
How do you find renewal?
What rhythms help you stay in love with God?
When was the last time you stepped back from doing to just be in God’s presence?
These aren’t rhetorical questions. They’re invitations—to reflect, to listen, and maybe to begin again.
I’ll still be attending worship somewhere during my leave. Because renewal isn’t stepping away from church or faith—it’s stepping deeper into it.
I look forward to walking beside you, even as I take a few steps back to listen more closely for what God is saying next.
Thank you for giving me the space to step back and breathe.
And thank you for the grace to return with fresh eyes, a full heart, and deep joy for the season ahead.
With Gratitude,
Rodney Whitfield
Senior Pastor
Aldersgate UMC