Annual Preparing for Retirement Conference
To all clergy aged between 60 and 70 this year
We are writing to invite you to the annual Preparing for Retirement Conference taking place on 13 – 15 May 2025 at High Leigh Conference Centre, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.
An opportunity for clergy considering retirement from parochial or chaplaincy roles to reflect on transitioning into ministry in retirement
Many people look forward to retirement as a time when they can at last be in charge of their diaries. Some dread the thought of moving away from activities and relationships that have given their lives a sense of purpose for decades.
For clergy, and especially those who have been in full-time ministry for many years, retirement raises questions about identity and meaning. Some are very happy to retire and hang up their cassocks. Others look forward to assisting in parish and other ministry, but with less responsibility. Many churches, particularly in rural areas, would be in a difficult position without the commitment of active, retired ministers.
The conference blends discussion with times of quiet and is designed for clergy who are thinking of retiring within the foreseeable future. Although there will be the opportunity to raise questions of a practical nature concerning retirement, this residential conference is mainly an opportunity to reflect on your transitioning into ministry in retirement by asking yourself: 'What am I looking for in retirement?'
The programme has a liturgical framework and will include a mixture of large and small group sessions. Input includes that from a qualified psychotherapist and a Diocesan Retirement Officer.
This conference is for Church of England stipendiary clergy serving in the Eastern Region dioceses of Chelmsford, Ely, Norwich, Peterborough, St Albans and St Edmundsbury & Ipswich.
To book please go to this Insight page. You will need to go via this link to access the page as it is not visible unless you have the link. Places are limited but there will be a waiting list.