Dear Friends,
Eleven years ago this month the Pastor Search Committee voted to recommend me to become the fifth pastor of River Road Church, Baptist. Sensing this to be the call of God for both of us I accepted their nomination and, subsequently, the supporting vote of the congregation. I began my work on September 1, 2004, and since then I have lived and worked under the lofty joys and weighty responsibilities that accompany the role of pastor of this wonderful church.
September 1, 2015 not only marks the eleventh anniversary of my service as pastor, it is also my 65th birthday. This is an appropriate occasion for reflection and self-assessment, a time of looking back with gratitude for all that has been and of looking forward with hope for what might be.
This also seems to me an appropriate time to announce my plan for retirement as pastor of River Road Church. I plan to conclude my service as your pastor no later than Sunday, November 22, 2015.
It is important for you to know what my decision to retire is not. I am not experiencing any pressure to leave from individuals or groups within the congregation. I am not angry or disappointed with the church. I do not lack confidence in our laity or staff. I am not troubled by our church’s health or future. I have not compromised my moral integrity. I have not received a distressing medical diagnosis. I am not in conversation with any other church or organization about future employment.
My decision to retire is the culmination of a lengthy process of personal reflection and spiritual discernment. In a simple sentence, while I am so blessed to be your pastor, with deep regret I am discovering that I do not have the energy to fulfill my duties as pastor at the level I have come to expect of myself, nor at the level River Road Church needs to fulfill its highest potential.
I have never wavered in my belief that River Road Church, Baptist has a vital role in the growth of God’s Kingdom. It is a great time to be a part of this vibrant congregation and to begin moving toward a new chapter of mission and ministry in Richmond and beyond. Vivian and I love being part of River Road Church, and we look forward to our participation in this community of faith in the years ahead.
Blessings,
Michael J. Clingenpeel
On the eve of Craig’s 65th birthday, I sit quietly in a single pool of light from my desk lamp and wonder at how all at once I can feel very sad and dejected and yet bursting with joy at the news of your pending retirement. I am so happy for you! Craig begins his journey of retirement tomorrow morning and though we’re at the beginning of the process, I can see his brow furrows lighten with his new freedom. I know it’s best for you to take this time to move on, rest your own furrows, and find out about life outside of leading a congregation. I’ll miss you. Nuff said. Blessings. B
Mike, I understand completely. Blessings, my friend.
Having been retired for a number of years, both Barbara and I certainly relate to your desire to enjoy it also. We highly recommend retirement and the freedoms provided. It is our joy to embrace you in this your reward for faithful service to God and others. We will miss you as our pastor, and hope that this time of your life will bring relaxation, freedom, and God’s blessings for your future. We trust that you will continue to do God’s work as one us on this side of the isle.