A retired minister of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle E. K. Barabu (Retd.), has encouraged ministers of the Church who are due to retire within the next ten years to regard retirement not as an ending, but as a transition into a new chapter of ministry.
Speaking on the theme, “Redefining Ministry in Retirement,” Apostle Barabu (Retd.) cautioned against the common misconception that retirement signifies the cessation of all ministerial work. He emphasised that true ministry never ends but rather evolves. Quoting Acts 20:24 and 2 Timothy 4:7, he reminded the gathering that “Apostle Paul spoke of finishing the race, not stopping the ministry.”
“How can I continue serving when I no longer have a district or an area?” he asked rhetorically, while encouraging ministers to remain spiritually active.
“Do not be passive; be renewed for new purpose. Your ordination, gifting, and call do not expire just because you leave full-time service. Once a minister, always a minister,” he affirmed, referencing Romans 11:29.
He urged participants to take stock of their gifts, passions, and strengths as they prepare for this new phase, emphasising that ministry is broader than any office one holds. He called on ministers to seek divine direction through prayer, especially when making major post-retirement decisions.
“Be willing to let go of past visions that are no longer appropriate and embrace new opportunities God will open to you,” he added.
Outlining possible avenues for continued service, Apostle Barabu (Retd.) suggested mentoring, coaching, discipling, teaching, writing, and intercession as meaningful ways to remain impactful. He encouraged ministers to read the Bible deeply for personal edification and to share God’s word with others.
Acknowledging the challenges that may come with the transition, he reminded retirees that “God will guide you even in your old age,” citing Isaiah 46:4. He further encouraged them to maintain their spiritual vitality, quoting Philippians 1:6 – “God still has a course for you to run, even in retirement.”
Apostle Barabu (Retd.) urged ministers to set healthy boundaries, guard their rest and peace, and trust God for provision in their later years, saying, “Continue your service, though its form has changed, for God’s calling is irrevocable. The task is not over until you hear so.”
PENT NEWS
