Church Family,

If you haven’t heard it yet, I’m taking my first-ever sabbatical on May 4 - July 26, 2026. That means, for twelve weeks, you won’t be seeing me around the church. It’s an opportunity for me to rest from work, deepen my love for Jesus, invest in my relationships, and set up rhythms that will sustain me into the next season of ministry. It’s been in the works since I started in February 2020, but it’s hard to believe I’m now in my seventh year as Lead Pastor (and fourteenth year on staff) and our Leadership Council is blessing me and my family with a sabbatical.

When I was a few years into being Lead Pastor, a more experienced local pastor told me, “The first couple of years can be challenging, but you’re going to start seeing unbelievable fruit in years five, six, and seven.” That's what I’ve been seeing. People are living everyday life like Jesus, the church is growing, generosity is expanding, our building is being renovated, and so much more. 

I’m confident that momentum will continue while I’m away on sabbatical because a sabbatical is a reminder that the church doesn’t depend on its pastor, it depends on Jesus. When I return, I’m praying that I’ll come back to a church that has even more momentum than when I left. In particular, I’m praying that I’ll come back to:

1. Continued Generosity: We increased our budget this year to fund the Every Square Inch Building Campaign, and I’m praying that we’re well on our way to fully funding it.

2. New Guests: I hope that, not only do I see you when I return, but I see new faces of people that you’ve invited while I was on sabbatical.

3. Fresh Stories: I want to hear stories of what God did in your lives this summer through things like Summer Blast Off, meetups, and more.

We have an exciting summer full of opportunities to take steps toward the lives you’re made for and invite others to do that with you. On Sundays, as part of a summer teaching series on Philippians,  you’ll get to hear from a range of people on staff, people within our church, and guest speakers.

Our Leadership Community, including our Leadership Council, staff team, and volunteer leaders, are ready to continue to guide our church while I’m away. You’ll also still see Julie around here and there as our Office Administrator. If you have any questions, reach out to hello@bellevuechristian.church and she’ll be happy to point you toward someone who can help.

While I’m away on sabbatical, would you commit to praying for me and my family? Pray that we make new memories together (especially on our road trip out West), make progress on some home projects, and make space for unhurried time with Jesus and each other. I want to rediscover the “unforced rhythms of grace” (Matthew 11:28-30).

My goal from the beginning of my ministry has been to be a pastor that lasts in a church that outlasts me, and I’m thankful for a sabbatical to help me do that. Can’t wait to be back with you on the first Sunday in August.

Austin Gohn
Lead Pastor