RETIREMENT CONGRATULATIONS

I just wrote a letter to a friend who is retiring from the ministry.  This may be the first time I’ve written such a letter.

I feel a little ashamed because I have quite a few friends who have retired in recent years, but I never wrote letters of congratulations to them.  L 

I suppose every pastor feels that his/her season of ministry was unique.  However, those of us who began in the 1970’s have seen a massive amount of change over five decades:  cultural, economic, social, and leadership.

Some changes:

·       We started with no computers to assist us.

·       Research involved going to a nearby university library.

·       Home visits were a priority when we started.

·       Annual (or bi-annual revivals) were part of the norm

·       Dress expectations have relaxed.

·       The requirement of being prepared to speak three times-a-week have lessened.

·       The church culture has changed dramatically.

·       We adapted to the pastor/CEO transition.

·       We survived the ‘worship wars’ of the 80’s and 90’s

The stress of ministry has magnified which each decade. 

We’ve lost some partners along the way.  Some decided that ministry was not what they had desired or expected and moved on to other ventures.  Some, unfortunately, fell to temptation, depression, or burn-out.  A few others found pleasing roles in para-church organizations or administrative roles that provided a buffer from ministry stress.

Most of us have struggled at one time or another with personal crises, feelings of being overwhelmed, financial challenges, family concerns, along with the responsibility of caring for a congregation facing similar issues. 

Although being ‘on call’ does not become a factor with great frequency, it is a reality that invades even our rest and relax times.  Plus, all of us have counseled individuals in the supermarket, WalMart or at a graduation party. 

However, we’ve also enjoyed amazing perks that accompany our work:

ü  The joy of helping someone to grow in Christ

ü  The satisfaction of seeing someone “get it”

ü  Leaders who have been recruited and trained

ü  Baptisms

ü  Affirmations

ü  Control of our schedule

ü  Pastor’s Appreciation month

ü  Dinner invites

ü  Gifts/cards

In light of all this, I congratulated my friend on maintaining high standards and personal integrity throughout his years.  I wished him a joy-full future and a fulfilling satisfaction in forming his new future.  I wish this for all my pastor-friends who have officially retired.  It won’t be too long and I’ll be joining you.