So(ul)journ!

On October 4th, I stood before the congregation where I’ve served for over ten years and shared that my wife and I have decided that next summer I will retire from active ministry — marking the end of thirty-one years of pastoral service. Before entering ministry, I spent fourteen and a half years working for the government, and before that, in the travel industry. In truth, I’ve spent my entire adult life — and some of my adolescence — engaged in meaningful work. Nearly fifty years of it.

I have to admit, a great deal of my self-worth is wrapped up in what I’ve done over those years. This morning, I watched a financial retirement vlog, and one of the things the presenter emphasized was the importance of stepping away from your work identity. That, I think, may be the most challenging part of retiring — learning to release who I’ve been professionally so that I can make room to discover who I’m becoming.

As I lean into this next phase of life, I recognize that my mindset will need to expand. A job title is not who I am; it’s simply what I do. My next chapter won’t include being a pastor or a “Rev. Dr.” — and that’s okay. I’ve loved that part of my life and carry no regrets, but I also know that to find the next opportunity in this adventure called life, I must remain open to new discoveries.

My recent renewal leave gave me a taste of what it’s like to be the architect of my own time. The highlights of that season were the moments spent with Jacki — traveling to visit family, grandchildren, and friends. Our extended walk along the Camino in Portugal and Spain was a particular joy. I loved observing the world around me, being more present in each moment, and later sharing those reflections through my blog. It’s been hard to find that kind of time for writing amid my pastoral work.

As I move into this new chapter, I hope to write not just about retiring, but about reimagining — what it means to listen for God’s leading in a life no longer defined by work. I look forward to sharing this new season of change with you — not as a pastor reflecting on ministry, but simply as a fellow traveler, still learning what it means to live with purpose, gratitude, and wonder.