Almost 25 years ago, James “Jim” Rissler had a plan for his future. A ruling elder involved in the youth ministry at Harvey Browne Presbyterian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, Rissler envisioned he would continue to work in commercial banking until his early 50s. Then he would find a way to work for an organization that more directly gave back to the community and the world.
The Holy Spirit had another idea.
“I definitely say that retirement for me has been a gift. It’s a gift of time,” the Rev. Dr. Barbara Cathey says during the fourth episode of the 2024 season of “Everyday God-talk,” produced by the Rev. Dr. So Jung Kim, associate for theology in the Presbyterian Mission Agency’s Office of Theology & Worship.
Now in its fourth season, this movement of Everyday God-talk is subtitled “How to Rest and Grow.” It explores the individual’s sense of call through transitions and retirement. New episodes are posted monthly on the Office of Theology and Worship’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
As the Rev. Rosemary C. Mitchell looks forward to celebrating 45 years of ordained ministry later this year, she remembers if not exactly the “good old days,” then at least a simpler time.
President Brian K. Blount announced to the board of trustees of Union Presbyterian Seminary at the board’s meeting Wednesday that he will retire as president of the seminary effective June 30, 2023. The board accepted his decision with deep appreciation for his 15 years of service and acknowledged his extraordinary leadership throughout his tenure.
The Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes, seventh president of Princeton Theological Seminary, has announced his intention to retire in 2023. Barnes will serve until a new president is named and assumes office, no later than June 2023.
The Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick has announced his retirement from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary effective at the conclusion of the fall 2021 semester.