Kathryn (Reid) Walker ’80 is a Pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Eau Claire, WI. First Presbyterian Church is a PCUSA congregation that is active in the community. First Presbyterian’s outreach includes a large vegetable garden that provides produce to a local food pantry, mental health workshops, music lessons and performances, and involvement in community justice issues. The church has received a grant of $30,774 to enable Rev. Walker to participate in the 2021 National Clergy Renewal Program. First Presbyterian is one of 156 congregations across the United States offered the grant program which is funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. This grant allows Kathy to spend her time away from the demands of daily ministry to engage in reflection and renewal. This respite will include travel, study, rest, prayer, and immersive arts and cultural experiences. During the summer 2022 sabbatical, Rev. Walker will attend two conferences at Ghost Ranch Presbyterian Conference Center in New Mexico, work with a spiritual/creativity director, and do some reading on play and creativity. She will design and sew a ministerial stole and develop ideas for creative worship. The congregation intends to make use of its grounds for activities, games, nature walks, and alternative forms of worship in her absence. Following the sabbatical, Rev. Walker and the congregation will participate in a half-day workshop focused on creative planning.
Grant Awarded to Rev. Kathy Walker
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