The Parish Paper - February 2015: How to Avoid the Potholes on the Road to Retirement

Gordon, a pastor in his late sixties, ignored all the warning signs. Despite his waning energy, he be-lieved he was the exception to every retirement rule. The congregation’s anxiety grew with each passing year and concerned leaders braced for the brewing crisis. Would the pastor have a medical emergency that suddenly suspended or ended his ministry? Would the church’s financial and mission vitality outlast the pastor’s “treading water” years? Would the congregation eventually confront Pastor Gordon and force him to exit?