Dear Pastoral Leaders of Denver Presbytery,
Easter Blessings!
I am writing to invite you to a special gathering for all pastoral leaders of our presbytery on Friday, May 15th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at the Presbytery Office. Lunch will be provided following the session.
We are privileged to welcome The Rev. Dr. Carrie Doehring, a renowned expert in trauma-informed awareness, who will lead us in an experiential workshop. This workshop is thoughtfully designed to help us explore what trauma-informed care looks like—not just as we care for our congregations and committees, but also as we care for ourselves. Read Carrie’s bio→
You might wonder….Why This Gathering Matters
As pastoral leaders, I fully recognize how difficult it is to carry the weight of leadership in these complicated and challenging times. The statistics are staggering:
We live in a world grappling with the ongoing effects of the Epstein files, threats of war, and the aftermath of COVID-19.
The prevalence of sexual misconduct, abuse, and unprocessed trauma continues to rise.
In the face of these realities, the need for attentiveness and care within our communities is more crucial than ever. This workshop offers us the opportunity to learn how to create safe and sacred spaces—both for those we serve and for ourselves as leaders.
This will be a time to:
Experience firsthand what trauma-informed care means in practice.
Deepen relationships with fellow pastoral leaders as we come together in person.
Learn practical tools to nurture safe and supportive environments in our congregations and gatherings.
Here is more information about the gathering.
This invitation is more than a meeting—it is a moment to come together as a community, to acknowledge the burdens of leadership, and to equip ourselves for the sacred work of healing and care. I encourage you to set aside this time to invest in your own well-being and in the well-being of the communities you serve.
Please RSVP by May8th, so we can plan appropriately for lunch and materials.
May God’s grace sustain you in your ministry, and may this time of gathering offer renewal and hope.
Be gentle with yourselves
Blessings,
Dee