“Equipped for Life” – Retirement Planning Workshop
The retirement of church Ministers and employees is a significant transition that requires careful planning and consideration. To support Ministers in this process, an annual retirement planning workshop is offered, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities that come with retirement. Lay employees also receive assistance through lively discussions during the Human Resources Audit period which is held at Institution and District level during the course of the year. The program demystifies the taboos surrounding retirement. The more we discuss the struggles and concerns surrounding this topic, the more we can be proactive rather that reactive. The interactive discussions allow for the sharing of experiences and strategies.
To impart knowledge, the workshop provides a safe environment for candid explorations of topics ranging from emotional preparedness to the implications of retirement on housing and living arrangements. We need not forget the importance of the post retirement phase. Participants assess the common practices regarding the relationship of ordained Ministers with their former parishes and how to navigate these and other social relationships post-retirement.
In this regard, the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe held its 2nd annual Ministers’ Retirement Planning Workshop at Kadoma Sky Lodge from 18-20 September 2024. The program was launched in 2023 and was initially attended by the first group of Ministers retiring between 2024 and 2029. This time around, the workshop catered to Ministers who are retiring between 2030 and 2032.
The 2023 workshop also included a special training session on mushroom growing which will be carried on to the current group of attendants to the workshop. This unexpected addition was met with enthusiasm from the attendees, many of whom were eager to explore new hobbies and sources of income in retirement. The theme for this year’s workshop was “Equipped for Life” and focused on a Holistic Approach to life pre and post retirement.
Experienced speakers and financial advisors shared insights and answered pertinent questions. Attendees received certificates and will continue to have access to further engagements and practical project management assistance. The retirement workshop for church Ministers aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary for a smooth transition into retirement. By addressing financial, emotional, and practical aspects, among other needs, the annual workshop seeks to foster a supportive environment for Ministers as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. The discussions remain relevant and practical as peers of the same age group relate coherently as they explore common concerns relating to retirement.
To ensure a broader engagement, employees in Districts will be participating in the retirement discussion during the HR Audit and training program to be held in the various districts in October and November 2024. It is hoped that this outreach program will ensure that the topic of preparedness is continuously unpacked and benefits all participants.
Finally, a word to the wise:
It is more ideal to begin preparing for retirement the moment one enters Ministry or is engaged as an employee but it does not mean that it is too late for those who have already travelled in Ministry or worked for a number of years to begin preparing. Questions such as the following need to be answered truthfully to assess the level of preparedness:
- Where will I live?
- How will I spend the rest of my days?
- What considerations do I have for health care?
- What financial support will I have & from where?
- Will I embark on entrepreneurship projects & are they already set up?
- Have I maintained important social & business networks to ensure continuous support in retirement?
Those who have not thought about retirement are encouraged to begin doing so now in earnest as there is no time like the present.
By Mrs E. Ngwenya