United Methodist Clergy were given tools, resources, and connections to provide them with continual insight and inspiration as they plan for the next phase of their ministerial life — retirement.
Clergy received this information at the 2019 Retiree Workshop, hosted by Christ United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, on Tuesday, March 3. Guests were greeted with a time of welcome along with a devotion and prayer led by Bishop Julius C. Trimble. Those in attendance introduced themselves and shared their plans for retirement.
Along with presentations and a Q&A from Wespath Benefits and Investments, guests were engaged by Clergy Care Services Director Rev. Mike Warner, President of the United Methodist Foundation Manet Shettle, Communications Officer Serena Acker, and Associate Director of Support Services Kathy Mitchell, who all shared, in part, about the Conference’s commitment to support retired clergy, surround them in prayer and community, and continue to encourage them as they discern how they can continue doing God’s work in this new chapter of life and ministry.
Jason Fishburn, Relationship Manager for the United Methodist Credit Union, made time to educate clergy about taking control of their finances, and ultimately, their future.
Jason said, “sharing our gifts and talents is what ministry is all about. It was an honor to care for our retiring clergy by sharing the ministry of the United Methodist Financial Credit Union at the 2019 Retiree Workshop. I believe the financial solutions the Credit Union offers will help our retiring clergy and their families as their call continues.”
Guests were also equipped through workshops that offered information about Supplemental Health Plans, SHIP Medicare, as well as Social Security — Retirement, Spouse, and Survivors Benefits.