Pastor Sara will be taking a sabbatical this summer! Here are some important details and frequently asked questions.

When is Pastor Sara’s sabbatical? 
May 26 – August 26, 2026
 
Will Salt House have any pastoral coverage during that time? 
Yes! The Church Council is working to finalize the details with a local pastor who will serve at Salt House during Pastor Sara’s sabbatical. Stay tuned!
 
What will Pastor Sara do on sabbatical? 
Grounding in marriage.  

• The Rooted Pastors Clergy Couple Retreat in Denver, CO.  
• A stay at the Posthotel, Leavenworth, WA. 

Grounding in family.  

• Renting a home in Cle Elum with the extended Wolbrecht family. 

Grounding in spirit and Spirit.  

• The Sacred Pause Retreat (for middle-aged clergy) in Sanat Fe, NM.  
• Spiritual Direction. 

Grounding in play.  

• The week-long course: Watercolor in the Sacred Milieu, at the Grunewald Guild near Leavenworth.  
• Exploring a local Walking-Soccer League! 

Grounding in body.  

• Organizing her home.  
• Exploring daily practices. 
• Getting help for GI and sleep issues.  
• Tending to new ways to exercise and care for her body. 

 
What does Salt House hope for during Pastor Sara’s sabbatical? 
We see this as a great opportunity to grow our connections, nurturing a sense of belonging. We’re going to have some fun while Pastor Sara is gone this summer…
 
Will Pastor Sara be in worship or at events? 
No. She will really be on sabbath from everything Salt House (with some FOMO!).
 
What about Jason? Will he take time off? 
Jason will use PTO to take some time off during the summer, as well, and will miss a few Sundays.
 
Pastor Sara has had time off related to her concussion in 2018 and 2023. How does this relate to or affect her sabbatical? 
Pastor Sara had a reduced workload beginning in November 2018, after a concussion became Post-Concussion Syndrome. She was back in her primary Salt House responsibilities in January 2019. At that time, she began filming her sermons for Sunday worship (before COVID made video sermons the trend), which she did for about nine months while moving more fully into her pastoral role.

There have been a few times in the years following where Pastor Sara’s symptoms would be triggered again, usually due to a physical bump. She would adapt her workload as needed in those times.

Pastor Sara also took a six-month medical leave in 2023 (July 2023 – January 2024) to address the ongoing propensity for concussion symptoms being triggered. She was on state Disability pay and not compensated by Salt House during those six months. As her disability benefit ended and she returned to work, the Council decided that Pastor Sara would receive full compensation as she expanded her hours from part to full-time over the course of six months (January 2024 – July 2024).
 
How is Pastor Sara’s health now?
Pastor Sara is doing well! In the last year she’s used the program, Dynamic Neural Retraining System, which has helped her heal and sooth her limbic system (the source of lingering concussion and trauma symptoms). She is feeling stronger and sharper than she has in years.  
 
When was Pastor Sara’s last sabbatical? 
May 15 – August 15, 2017
 
What is Salt House’s sabbatical policy? How long, how often, and for what purpose? 
From the Salt House Personnel Manual:
Sabbaticals provide an extended period in which a rostered staff pastoral leader can
take a break from their regular duties for a season of sabbath, and/or to engage in other
activities to support their spiritual growth, reflect on the call to ministry and on their
relationship with God and God's people. The Sabbatical period and the terms of it are a mutually negotiated agreement (covenant) between the pastor and the congregation. It is recommended that this covenant be made in writing, signed by the Pastor and Council President.

• All Salt House rostered staff who currently work at least 30 hours per week, and who have been employed by Salt House by call or by contract for a minimum of six (6) consecutive years, are eligible for a sabbatical of three months. Successive sabbaticals can be granted no more than once every six years. An optional one-month sabbatical Approved by Leadership Team 10.15.2025 may be granted to an Employee after 3 years of service in place of 6 years of service.
  
  
• Successive sabbaticals of one month would not be granted more than every 3 years. An employee could also qualify for a three-month sabbatical after 6 years of service, following their one-month sabbatical.
  
  
• An extended leave of absence of more than six weeks does not count toward consecutive service for sabbatical eligibility (e.g. An employee who takes a 2-month leave of absence would need to work 6 years plus 2 months to be eligible for a sabbatical).
  
  
• The rostered staff member is expected to develop a plan for the sabbatical that outlines the activities they will engage in and the goals they hope to achieve. Sabbath is considered an appropriate part of the plan for a sabbatical.
  
  
• The rostered staff member's sabbatical plan and timing must be approved by the Church
  
  
• Council at least 3 months before the sabbatical begins. As part of this approval process, the Church council will develop a backfill plan to cover the pastor’s duties and responsibilities while they are on sabbatical.
  
  
• The plan should include a description of the activities the rostered staff member will engage in, the expected outcomes, and a timeline for completion.
  
  
• The rostered staff member is expected to provide a report to the Church Council within 60 days of the completion of the sabbatical period. The report should include a summary of the activities the rostered staff member engaged in, the outcomes achieved, and any recommendations for future sabbaticals.
  
  
• The congregation/Church Council can also provide insights and visions that it has had during the sabbatical period (optional).
  
  
• Return to Work: The expectations for continued service by the rostered staff member to the congregation after the Sabbatical period is completed should be explicitly discussed and agreed upon prior to the approval of the sabbatical plan by Church Council. For example, specific timing, duty transitions, congregation communications, etc.  

Salt House Church in Kirkland is looking for a Church Operations & Community Manager to join our vibrant, inclusive community dedicated to social progressivism and radical hospitality. This part-time role, offering 30 hours per week, manages day-to-day building operations and serves as a vital connection point for staff, volunteers, and the local community. If you are an organized and proactive individual with a heart for service, please apply by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to hiring@salthousechurch.org

DETAILS:
Position Type: Part-time (approximately 30 hours/week), Non-exempt
Schedule: Sunday–Thursday, approx. 9am–3pm
Compensation: $23–$30/hour based on experience
Benefits: $270/month benefits stipend | Paid Time Off | Continuing Education
Reports To: Church Pastor
Location: Salt House Church | 11920 NE 80th St, Kirkland, WA 98033
Travel Required: No
Background Check: Criminal background check required | Safe Haven Training provided

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations & Property Stewardship

• Own the day‑to‑day operations of the church building and campus, ensuring spaces are safe, functional, and welcoming.
• Coordinate and schedule maintenance services in cooperation with the Building and Grounds Team, including cleaning, utilities, pest control, security, equipment, landscaping, and required certifications.
• Manage keys, alarms, access, and building readiness.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for urgent building or alarm issues. This responsibility does not limit personal time; only active time spent responding is paid.
• Oversee the campus calendar and building use.
• Cultivate positive relationships and serve as a liaison to renters, church congregations, and onsite partners, including Kirkland Place and the Kirkland Co-op Preschool.
• Monitor building use and ensure smooth transitions between users, so spaces are adequately prepared.
• Develop systems to refine and improve operational efficiency/effectiveness, advancing our mission, vision, and initiatives.
• Work closely with church leadership to develop and maintain procedural policies and protocols for staff and volunteers that align with our mission and values.

Office & Systems Management

• Maintain an organized, functional, and welcoming office environment.
• Manage office operations including incoming and outgoing mail, general church email, inventory and purchasing office, kitchen, and building supplies, printing, and office equipment maintenance.
• Manage databases, records, lists, and passwords.
• Ensure accurate data entry and that all records are maintained in a safe and secure manner.
• Maintain institutional documentation and systems that support the ongoing work of the church.

Administrative & Financial Support

• Provide administrative support to staff and ministry teams to advance program and ministry outcomes.
• In cooperation with the bookkeeper, support the financial systems of Salt House Church.
• Support the work of the Finance Team, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary.
• Process bills, reimbursements, and checks; support payroll reminders and financial workflows.
• Prepare reports and documentation as requested in coordination with the bookkeeper and leadership.
• Support the Personnel Team with administrative tasks, paperwork, and systems as needed.

Welcome, Communications & Community Interface

• Serve as a primary point of contact and welcoming presence for staff, volunteers, congregants, partners, and community members.
• Manage incoming phone calls, emails, referrals, and front‑door interactions, directing people to appropriate staff, ministries, or resources.
• Produce and distribute the weekly email newsletter.
• Support and maintain the church's social media presence, including creating and curating content for platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
• Help tell the story of how Salt House Church is making a positive impact in the community with and through God's love.
• Create an Annual Report by collecting weekly 'This Is Goods' and other newsworthy items from the life of Salt House Church.

Volunteer Coordination & Support

• In collaboration with staff and ministry leaders, identify volunteer roles and support the creation of volunteer position descriptions.
• Support recruitment, screening, onboarding, training, oversight, and coordination of volunteers as needed.
• Cultivate positive, appreciative relationships and clear communication with volunteers.
• Support volunteer teams that provide essential operational and ministry support across the church.

Justice Work Support

• Provide administrative and logistical support for Salt House's justice‑focused initiatives, including reparations work.
• Track funds, reimbursements, and reporting related to justice and community initiatives.
• Support communications, scheduling, and coordination for justice‑focused teams and activities.

WEEKLY RHYTHM

• Maintain consistent office hours aligned with the posted schedule, with occasional flexibility to support operational needs.
• Meet weekly with the Pastor to share updates, coordinate priorities, and address operational matters.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings and provide administrative and operational updates as needed.
• Support the preparation and flow of weekly administrative items related to facilities, partners, volunteers, finance, shelter coordination, and personnel matters.
• Regular Sunday presence is expected as part of community engagement, with flexibility for scheduling needs.

 
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• 3–5 years of administrative experience, preferably in a nonprofit or faith-based setting, with demonstrated responsibility for independently managing systems or operations while working collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, showing a willingness to take responsibility and get things done.
• Strong attention to detail with proven ability to achieve thoroughness and accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to identify problems and resolve them with efficiency, flexibility, and creativity.
• Enthusiasm for being part of a growing community and serving others with love and compassion.
• Proven ability to extend sensitivity and inclusivity to guests and members, especially people from marginalized communities, including unhoused neighbors.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships and communication with staff, volunteers, and community members.
• A collaborative and adaptable mindset, with a willingness to embrace change and innovation.
• Comfort with technology and learning new software; proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook required.
• Ability to complete Safe Haven Training at Salt House (provided).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• An associate's degree in business administration, nonprofit management, or related field.
• Budget management and fiscal agent experience.
• Proficiency in QuickBooks, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, SharePoint, and Expensify.

CORE COMPETENCIES
All employees of Salt House Church are required to be able to work effectively with church staff, lay leaders, members, and the general public. Each employee is expected to demonstrate the following core competencies and values:

• Working with others toward one common goal
• Commitment to support and empowerment of volunteers
• Adaptability to changing roles and job challenges
• Open and timely communication
• Understanding and respect of professional and personal boundaries
• Respect for, and inclusiveness of, all individuals, consistent with our mission statement
• Protection of confidential information

 
PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The employee frequently is required to talk and hear
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus
• Position requires flexibility in scheduling, including odd hours

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily within the physical parameters and work environment described above. The requirements listed herein are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and of the general working conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS

• This position requires a criminal background check.
• This position requires Safe Haven Training (provided by Salt House).

HOW TO APPLY
We'd love to hear from you. Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to hiring@salthousechurch.org.

Our mission is to be a church that lives by faith, is known by love, and joins God's movement of healing, justice and hope for the world.
salthousechurch.org

Salt House Treasurer Irwin Dolobowsky gives a finance update for the Salt House community. Here is an overview of the Salt House FY26 Q2 Finance Review highlighting the important elements:

• Financial Health & Giving Trends
  
  • Record-Breaking Months: The church experienced its best October and November ever for giving.
  • Income Performance: Year-to-date General Giving is at $230,429, exceeding the budgeted amount of $217,500 (106%). Total operating income stands at $305,871, which is 105% of the budget.
  • Expense Management: Expenses are currently under budget at $260,960 (91% of the planned $285,395).
  • Significant Surplus: Due to high giving and lower expenses, the Net Operating Income is $44,911, far exceeding the budgeted surplus of $7,082.
    
    
• Funds & Assets
  • General Fund: The General Fund balance has grown to $273,253 as of the end of Q2.
  • Restricted Accounts: There has been active distribution of restricted funds into the community, particularly from the Community Initiatives and Reparations funds.
  • Total Assets: Total assets are valued at approximately $3.64 million, with very low liabilities ($15,920).
    
    
• Staffing & Personnel Updates
  • Finance Secretary Transition: Scott Moor was thanked for his service, and Mariah Mannia-Hitz was welcomed as the new volunteer Finance Secretary.
  • Open Roles: The current Treasurer's term ends in June, creating a vacancy for a new Treasurer. The church is also looking for new members to join the Finance Team.
    
    
• Future Planning & Activities
  • FY27 Budget: The budget process for the next fiscal year is kicking off, with a community vote scheduled for June.
  • Wisdom Council / Hiring: Discussions are ongoing regarding future staffing. The Treasurer noted that while the church is doing well, hiring another pastor (estimated at $130k–$160k/year) would require significant growth in the congregation and giving.
    
    
• Ways to Give
  • In-Person: Donations can be placed in the "Joy Jar" located in the sanctuary.
  • Online: Gifts can be made via the online giving portal, which supports one-time and recurring donations 
  • Giving Page at Salt House Church - https://www.salthousechurch.org/giving
    
    
• Community Note
  • Girl Scouts: Irwin is coordinating Girl Scout cookie sales at the church to ensure fairness among the scouts involved.

Lent is a season for spiritual renewal—forty-ish days that invite us to slow down, tell the truth about our lives and the world, and lean into God’s deep love that meets us right where we are. You’re invited to engage in worship, community, justice, and shared spiritual practices throughout the season. Come for one thing or many—there’s room for you. You can find more info on our website

Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent with worship, prayer, and the marking of ashes. Join us for this reflective evening service at Salt House.
Childcare available for ages 0–5; kids of all ages are also welcome in worship.

Sundays | 10:00am Worship
The embodied journey of Lent - we journey honestly toward our mortality with Jesus (and he walks faithful toward the cross) while trusting God’s powerful, renewing love at work within and among us.

Wednesdays at 6:30pm | MEAL SIGN UP HERE
Join us for a shared meal, simple meditative worship (Taizé & Holden Evening Prayer), and community connections. Family-friendly; nursery care available.

Tuesday, March 10 | 6:30pm
Award-winning journalist and author Nico Lang joins us to share from their book American Teenager, lifting up stories of trans youth with courage, resilience, and joy. Together we’ll explore how our community can better support queer and trans kids.
Free and open to the public. Book signing to follow.

Starting March 17 we will host a Tuesday evening book study on John Fugelsang's book Separation of Church and Hate -- Pick up a copy and start reading! The book study will be an ONLINE event via Microsoft Teams.

Sunday, March 1 | 4:00–7:00pm
MAPS Redmond (17550 NE 67th Ct, Redmond)The Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS) invites our Salt House community to their 2026 Interfaith Iftar, celebrating 20 years of service, unity, and community impact. Ramadan is a sacred month centered on fasting, reflection, generosity, and renewal, with each evening’s iftar meal offering a powerful expression of shared values.This evening will bring together faith leaders, educators, public officials, and neighbors to:

• Learn about Ramadan and its significance
• Build relationships across faiths
• Celebrate shared values through dialogue and a shared meal
  RSVP by Feb. 9, 2026: bit.ly/mapsinterfaith Use promo code: hend26

You’re invited into the ancient Lenten practice of fasting on Thursdays (in whatever way makes sense for you) and to join a virtual prayer gathering from 12:00–12:30pm via Microsoft Teams.

New Bethlehem Place Volunteer Training | Sunday, Mar. 8 at 11:30am
Required training for those interested in serving in facilitation and community event roles with our neighbors at the family shelter next door.

Sunday, March 29 | After Worship
Help spruce up the Salt House building and grounds as we prepare for Easter. All ages welcome—stay as long as you’re able! Music, hot dogs, and good company included.

Two classes during Lent | First Communion Sunday: March 29
For kids in 1st grade and older, culminating in a joyful celebration during worship.

Good Friday Worship | Friday, April 3 – 6:30pm
Easter Sunday Celebration | Sunday, April 5 – 10:00am

Job Title: Nursery Team Member
Job Category: Childcare
Department/Group: Children’s Ministry
Training Required: Safe Haven
Training Provided: Yes

Location: Salt House Church, Kirkland, WA      
Compensation: $17.13 - $20.00 per hour, depending on experience
Position Type: Part-time (6 hours/month)
Reports to: Rachel Horton
Travel Required

Applications Accepted:

• By: EMAIL: rachelh@salthousechurch.org 
• MAIL: Salt House Church, 11920 NE 80th St., Kirkland, WA 98033

Job Description

Salt House Church, a welcoming and progressive community in Kirkland’s South Rose Hill neighborhood, is seeking a warm and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Nursery Team Member. We are a community grounded in the teachings of Jesus, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and social justice within the Lutheran (ELCA) tradition.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Help create a loving environment for the youngest members of our community. As a Nursery Team Member, your primary responsibility will be to care for and engage with children aged 0-4 during worship services, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
This position will require the person to work in nursery room two to three Sundays per month, plus one other non-Sunday “event.”  Responsibilities include:

• Welcome and Engage: Create a welcoming atmosphere by warmly greeting parents and children as they enter the nursery.
• Lead or Assist in Activities: Support or lead circle time, which includes reading stories, singing songs, and leading prayers (materials provided). Interact with children and encourage involvement in activities.
• Safety and Hygiene: Ensure child safety by following established drop-off and pick-up procedures and providing toileting support as needed.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with lead staff regarding any needs, supplies, or issues. Utilize flexibility and creativity to solve problems/conflicts between children.
• Clean-Up: Maintain a tidy and organized nursery space by cleaning and straightening toys, equipment, and other materials after use.

HOURS:

• Work two to three Sundays per month from 9:45 am – 11:15 am.
• Work one additional non-Sunday “event” to provide childcare while parents are participating in the event.
• A monthly check-in meeting with the Children, Youth & Family Ministries Director is also required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be 16+ years old.
• Experience caring for children preferred.
• Ability to work well in a team and communicate effectively is essential.
• This position requires a national background check for candidates aged 18+.
• This position requires Safe Haven Training (provided by Salt House).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs and engage in activities that require talking, hearing, and seeing.

CORE COMPETENCIES:
All employees of Salt House Church are required to be able to work effectively with church staff, lay leaders, members, volunteers, and the general public.  Each employee is expected to demonstrate the following core competencies and values:

• Working with others toward one common goal
• Commitment to support and empowerment of volunteers
• Adaptability to changing roles and job challenges
• Open and timely communication
• Understanding and respect of professional and personal boundaries
• Respect for, and inclusiveness of, all individuals, consistent with our mission statement
• Protection of confidential information

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily within the physical parameters and work environment described above. The requirements listed herein are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and of the general working conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Here's the finance update for FY26, Q1 with Salt House Treasurer Irwin Dolobowsky.

Hello Salt House!

With the launch of our fall Small Groups, we are creating connections with one another! And one of the tools we’ll be implementing to help the Salt House community do this connecting work is an ONLINE DIRECTORY for anyone in our community who is a member or regular attender.

If you’re part of the Salt House community, we have much of your information organized and ready to go; however, your personal information is always private in the directory until you choose to share it.

Access to the directory is the same as your access to your giving or any other space in the Planning Center System (enter your phone number or email, plus authentication code sent via text message or email). Any given individual’s access to the directory is determined by the permissions we set as administrators.

You should have received an invitation to access the directory and choose your publicly available information. One nice feature is that your personal contact information is ALWAYS hidden, but if folks want to contact you, there is a “contact” button that relays messages to your primary email. It’s a sweet system. If you don’t receive an invitation to the directory, let us know via the email address below.

If you have any questions or need to update any of your information, please let us know – send a message to info@salthousechurch.org

KATIE'S GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD!

After many months of planning, the new basketball pad for the New Bethlehem Shelter next door is finally complete — and it’s already being put to good use! The kids began playing the moment the concrete dried. The court is also open to our own youth and the Kirkland Co-op Preschool.

This project began as part of Katherine's Girl Scout Gold Award, which focuses on creating lasting, community-centered impact. When I learned that the shelter kids had been playing basketball in the parking lot — even against a neighbor’s wall — it was clear a safer space was needed.

With guidance from Jim Anderson, Sean Mobley, and James Colver, and help from Pastor Ryan and shelter contact Chanel Fleming, we were able to design a plan that met the shelter’s needs without disrupting residents. After our first contractor fell through, we partnered with Miguel from Kirkland Concrete, who did a fantastic job. Funding came from the Salt House Community Initiatives Fund (thank you, Council!), and Jim Anderson generously donated the pole and backboard.

It’s amazing to see this vision come to life. As a next step, I’d love to host a short basketball mini-camp to teach kids fun games for a smaller court. If you have any basketball experience and would like to help, please connect us at Salt House.

Thank you all for your support in making this project a reality!

Salt House Treasurer Irwin Dolobowsky shared our end-of-year Finance Update for FY25

Howdy! I (Rachel Horton) would like to set up our youth for a successful, fun, and engaging 2025-26 programming year! This means having volunteers and support set up for the new youth leader (or myself!) before the fall kickoff. I'll try to answer some common questions here about Co-Leading at Salt House.

What is the commitment?
It would be a one-year commitment (August 2025 - June 2026). Each group meets for 1 hour per week. As a coleader, you will be in-charge some sessions, so you may want to set aside 30 minutes during those weeks to go over the lesson.

What do I need to do as a co-leader?
While you may be leading the group some weeks, all of the curriculum and materials will be provided to you -- you don't have to come up with anything by yourself (unless you have some game ideas you want to share!).

What makes a good co-leader?
Someone who is willing to sit with the youth and genuinely engage with them. None of us know everything, so it's okay not to have all the answers -- just be willing to talk about it and form relationships with the kids. And be ready for FUN! The youth often go out and do fun things -- pumpkin patch, rock climbing, service projects, etc. If this is something you love, this volunteer position is PERFECT FOR YOU!

Please prayerfully consider if this service opportunity might be right for you. These programs don't happen without volunteer support, so thank you for considering!

Let me know if you have any questions :)

Hello friends!

It's time to soak up the sun and enjoy one another's company. At Salt House, we've been working hard to organize connecting opportunities for y'all. Look below for a number of ways to enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest weather, good food, and meet some new folks. If you're newer to Salt House, these opportunities are the perfect way to engage.

A few folx from Salt House are opening their homes for dinner gatherings! Check out the options below!

Host: Becky Wilson
Where: Duvall
When: July 18 from 6-9pm
Up to 11 people, all ages
SIGN UP HERE

Host: Jim & Anne Anderson
Where: Kirkland (South Rose Hill)
When: July 23 from 6-9pm
Up to 10 people, all ages
SIGN UP HERE

Host: Linnea Anderson
Where: Bothell
When: Aug 1 from 6-9pm
Up to 10 people, singles and couples (no kids)
SIGN UP HERE

Host: Pam Waring, Terry Doty, and Deb Paget
Where: Kirkland
When: Aug 18 from 12-3pm
Up to 12 people, singles and couples (no kids)
SIGN UP HERE
 
And there's more!
- Movies at Marymoor on July 2, July 24, and Aug 20
- Queer Group Events
- VBS - July 14-18
- Wavery Beach Park Hangout, July 30

As we approach our Annual Meeting on June 1, we are continuing to ask folks from the Salt House Community to submit a giving pledge for the next fiscal year.

We think of this a two-way conversation: Salt House has let you know that we are aiming to see $435,000 in giving in the next fiscal year. We hope you've heard that! And now, we're hoping to hear from you what you'd like to do to help us meet that goal.

There are loads of reasons you may not have submitted your pledge yet.

• We already give to Salt House.
  • That's wonderful! Keep doing that... but also let us know what your planned giving for the FY26 fiscal year looks like. This helps our leadership plan with confidence.
    
    
• I feel uncertain about our finances right now.
  • This is completely understandable. And we are with you. When you submit a pledge, it's simply a statement of intent, not a binding contract. We understand things can change (for better or worse) and grace abounds if your planned giving changes.
    
    
• I keep forgetting to submit a pledge.
  • Well, now is the time! Click here!

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Treasurer, Irwin Dolobowsky or to Pastor Sara Wolbrecht.

Hello Salt House,

In preparation for our Annual Meeting on June 1, 2025 I am sharing today the proposed budget approved by the Salt House Council to be voted upon by the congregation our Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) running July 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026.

Operating Income

We estimate income each year to compare it with Expenses to determine if we will end the year with a net positive, negative, or even cash flow.  For FY26 our estimated income is based on the following:

• Giving in FY24 ended just short of $400,000 and FY25 was tracking similar. A new, significant recurring monthly donation was offered earlier this year, and this estimate takes that into account
• Interest income aligns to what we have earned this year on our Certificate of Deposits (CDs) and general savings interest
• 5% raises proposed for all church renters and our parsonage renters
• CCS has informed us that they will no longer be leasing the basement space, an income loss of ~$37,000
  
  

In total we estimate an income of $584,955 for FY26.  This represents a slight drop in income, ~$3,800 from the previous year, primarily due to the new donor and loss of CCS.

Operating Expenses

Operating Expenses are what we plan to spend next year to operate our church.  Beyond what is approved in the budget, Council does have the power to authorize additional spending up to $5000 per contract if necessary.  Changes to the budget or spending beyond that from the general fund would require subsequent approval from our membership as we saw this year when we voted to repair the parsonage roof.
For FY26 our proposed budget is based on the following changes from FY25

• Staff Expenses
  • Pr. Sara moves to full time as our only pastor to start the year. Pr. Ryan is no longer on payroll
  • Addition of a new Youth Leader for Y@SH and Spark to address this active and growing part of our community
  • Salary increases as proposed by the Personnel Team including 5.9% for our salaried pastors and staff (recommended by the Synod) and 2.7% for our hourly employees (based on the Consumer Price Index in the Seattle region)
• Benevolence
  • Continues to be 10% of giving
• Council & Teams
  • New budget item to represent Council & Teams
• Office Expenses
  • Small percentage increases due to increase costs of goods & services
  • Better estimates of actual need based on spending this eyar
• Buildings & Grounds Expenses
  • Increases in Cleaning & Security Feeds by our vendors
  • Increases in Property Taxes
  • Small increase in Building Improvement budget
• Ministry Expenses
  • Small percentage increases due to increase costs of goods & services
  • Small decreases in some areas based on spending this year
  • A large ask for budge to support our Pastor as we transition back to a single pastor in the new fiscal year; See “Budgeting for Transition” below
    
    

In total we’re asking for approval of $570,791 in spending for FY26.  This represents a significant drop of ~$62,500 from FY25 primarily due to the departure of Pr. Ryan.
For FY26, given the estimate income and planned expenses, we’re currently estimating a surplus of ~$14,000 which would be put back into our General Fund for future use.

Budgeting for Transition

The start of FY26 will also be a time of change for our community as we transition from 1.75 pastors to 1 full-time pastor. We’ve built into the budget $30K to cover expenses for additional pastoral support and resources for discernment and strategic planning, including:

• Guest Preachers
• Coaching and consulting as we develop our identity and mission for the next season, including discerning our staffing and pastoral needs moving forward
• Possible Interim Pastor (a temporary part-time pastor)
  
  

We are excited for the new opportunities God will lead us into together!
 
Building Fund

This year we will also propose the creation of a new restricted fund for to be used for Building Maintenance, including the main building and the Parsonage.  This restricted fund would be seeded initially with $20,000 from our general fund.  In addition, 50% of interest earned from our savings and investments would be put into this fund, with the other 50% continuing to go into our general fund.

As per our Constitution, the Council cannot enter contracts for more than $5000 without approval of the membership which requires at least 2 weeks' notice.  The Council is concerned, given what recently happened with the Parsonage, that we may have an emergency building issue which would require repairs more than $5000 but for which waiting for a membership vote could make the issue worse.

By creating a restricted fund, the council would be able to use this money without a full vote of the membership but only in the way defined by the purpose of the fund.  It would still protect the congregation from general spending beyond the approved budget

Budget Contributors

Thank you to the many people who contribute to the creation of our annual budget each year.  It is a long but important process, and we appreciate their work:

• Pastors & Staff who discern how best to allocate our resources to serve this community
• Personnel Team who are always advocating for the best for our amazing people
• Finance Team who continues to watch over our finances to ensure a solid future

 
Questions

As always if you have any questions about the budget or anything related to the finances of our church please reach out to treasurer@salthousechurch.org.

On behalf of the Entire Council,
Irwin Dolobowsky
Salt House Treasurer

On Friday, March 9, Pastor Ryan announced to the Salt House community that he will be leaving Salt House and moving to Arizona to be closer to family and to take a new pastoral call. You can read Pastor Ryan's letter to the Salt House HERE or watch the video below.

Shortly after Ryan's letter was sent, Pastor Sara and the Salt House Council sent a follow up message with details about the next steps for Salt House in this season of change and transition. You can read that letter HERE.

Pastor Ryan has led Salt House faithfully with playfulness and passion, impacting the ministry of Salt House and our individual faith formation. Let’s bless him!

• Come celebrate with food and toasts after worship on his last Sunday, June 8th.
• Write words of thanks, memories, and blessings in the cards and journal available at Salt House on Sundays, for Pastor Ryan to feel our love and gratitude. 
• Hold Pastor Ryan and Bonnie, Moses, Juniper, and Simon in prayer as they work through all the transitions and consider responding when help is needed with packing and moving

In this season of change, we are encouraging the people of Salt House to engage as a community, living into our core practice of "being changed." Now, more than ever, you are invited to step into volunteer and leadership roles in our community.

• Help support our diverse ministries through volunteering:
  • Kids & Youth
  • Support on Sundays
  • Join our Justice League (help guide our Kirkland Place, Reparations, and Queer Initiatives)
  • Join our Care Team (especially to be on a list of "one-time" helpers we can call)
  • Share your story on a Sunday morning!
• Indicate your interest in serving on our Transition Team.
• Consider becoming a member to step more deeply into belonging at Salt House.

When a pastor leaves it can bring up a complexity of emotions as we reflect on the pastor’s tenure and ministry among us. One question that might come up for you is, "Will I be cared for?" Pastor Sara, our Personnel Team, and our Council members are all available for conversation and care and we would be glad to walk with you in this season. We are here, so please reach out if you need us!

As we approach our Annual Meeting on June 1, 2025, the Salt House staff, council, personnel, and finance teams have been working to create our budget for the upcoming fiscal year (starts July 1, 2025).

Here, Salt House Treasurer Irwin Dolobowsky shares our current draft of the budget. We will continue to refine this budget and give another update on May 18.

If you have thoughts or feedback, please email Irwin at treasurer@salthousechurch.org

FY26 Giving Pledge Invitation
Mar 27, 2025  •  Sara Wolbrecht

It's the time of year when the Salt House staff, council, finance team, and personnel team are working together to develop next year's budget! You're invited to submit a giving pledge what you're planning to give to Salt House during the FY25-26 fiscal year.

This information helps us to plan our budget for the coming year. Your pledge is a statement of intent, not a binding contract. So, whether you're a regular giver or a new giver, increasing or decreasing your giving, (or keeping it the same) we are asking you fill out this pledge form. This pledge you submit reflects what you're planning to give in REGULAR GENERAL GIVING for the upcoming fiscal year (starting July 1, 2025).

Please submit a GIVING PLEDGE for Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026)

Finance Update offered by Salt House Treasurer, Irwin Dolobowsky

Reach out if you have questions: treasurer@salthousechurch.org

The Salt House Nominating Committee is looking for prayerful, faith-filled folks to jump in and help lead as we continue working toward our mission and vision in this community.

If you have spiritual gifts aligned with leading, please touch base with a staff or Nominating Committee member!

• Organized
• Connected to the community
• Good communicator
• Related professional experiences or passion for an
• area of ministry
• Role-specific strengths

We are looking to fill the following roles (starting in July):

• Council:
  • President
  • VP
  • At Large (2+ spots)
• Nominating Committee - 4 members

• 2-year term (members rotate for overlap)
• Serve as a liaison to an area of ministry at Salt House
• Lead and assist with congregational activities
• Time Commitment:
  • 2 hour council meeting once per month
  • Any hours necessary to complete liaison role

Example Liaison Areas:

• Welcome & Worship
• Children, Youth &
• Family
• Building & Grounds
• Shelter Engagement
• Care Ministry
• Reparations

(From Pastor Ryan's family)

I remember when Grace Atmajian first brought Gingerbread Blondies to church a dozen years ago. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. These blondies are a Christmas party in my mouth. Even though the recipe doesn't call for it, I like to add some fresh grated ginger to really give it a zing.

In just about any popular market in Namibia you can find Braais BBQ grilled on an open flame. These spiced beef strips are tossed into newspaper. Christmas Eve is an especially favorite time to enjoy Braais with gingerbread cookies together with family.

“This is for us the hardest point, not so much to believe that he is the son of the Virgin and God himself, as to believe that this Son of God is ours. That is where we wilt, but the one who does feel it has become a new creation.” -- Martin Luther

During our Mid-Year Congregational Meeting on Sunday, January 12, 2025, we'll be attending to some constitutional amendments. Click the button below to view the model constitution and proposed amendments.

The council recommends adopting the following constitutional amendments as approved by the 2022 Churchwide assembly. Rationale for these amendments provided:
 
Rationale: [This amendment was proposed on the assembly floor during the 2019 Churchwide Assembly; consequently, no rationale was provided prior to the assembly] Broader language of equity and diversity  

• *C4.02.d.
• *C9.03.a.8)
• *C9.23.c.

Rationale: Inclusive language

• *C6.05.a&d. 
• *C9.13 
• *C9.31

Rationale: These changes parallel changes being made elsewhere in the Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA. Language related to disability has been changed to reflect current understandings and to clarify that inability and incapacity to conduct the pastoral office effectively are the standard to be considered. In addition, the words, the words, “any of” have been inserted for precision, and references to the synod bishop have been made inclusive.

• *C9.05.a.4) & b. & c.
• *C9.25.a&b&c 

Rationale: The deletion of “parochial” is for consistency of usage

• *C9.12. 

Rationale: These changes parallel changes being made elsewhere in the Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA. The deletion of “parochial” is for consistency of usage. The second change is for inclusive language

• *C9.14 

Rationale: Change for inclusion of both rosters

• *C15.02 

Rationale: “Regular meeting” has already been defined elsewhere in the Constitutions, Bylaws, and continuing resolutions of the ELCA. In addition, C10.01 is not a required provision, so it is not advisable to make reference required provision to a non-required provision.

• *C16.02a-c 

Rationale: Change for precision. This has often been incorrectly interpreted to mean that the synod must vote to approve amendments that are designated to bring the congregation’s constitution into alignment with the Model Constitution. In fact, amendments to bring any section or sections, either required or not required, into conformity with the Model Constitution go into effect immediately upon the congregation’s vote to amend

• *C16.04 

Rationale: This change recognizes that there are other means of providing for simultaneous communication, for those with hearing disabilities, for example

• C10.08
• C12.13 

Rationale: There is often confusion surrounding the term “ex officio”. The intended meaning is that someone who is a voting member ex officio has both voice and vote because of the office that person holds. The term is often misunderstood, however, to mean that the person cannot vote.

• C10.09 

Rationale: Because synods have different systems for receipt of mission support monies from congregations, the elimination of the word “treasurer” allows for greater flexibility

• C12.05

 
The council does not recommend the following constitutional amendments as our church does not have the necessary infrastructure.

Rationale: If the pastor is the president of the congregation, the congregation may consider giving the vice president the authority to call a special meeting

• C10.02
• C12.11 
• C13.08

Rationale: If the pastor is the president of the congregation, the congregation may consider giving the vice president the authority to call a special meeting

• *C15.11 

Rationale: Editorial change
 

• *C20.02 
• *C20.03d