One of the things I relish as I age is watching waves of young clergy enter our denomination. These young pastors who have come into our Presbytery over the past 5-10 years are among the most talented, energetic and creative of any I have witnessed in my 37 years as a pastor. They bring a smile of contentment to my face as I consider the impact they will have on our denomination long after I retire.

I'll miss my place in the sanctuary, the red velvet throne that's lost its springs. I'll miss looking at the stained glass window and studying Jesus' face. I'll miss watching people enter, their posture telling me something about their week. I'll miss praying for them; will miss praying for the Spirit upon the service.

The emotional journey from economist to pastor has been an important theme for me in the New Year. For the past 27 years, I worked as an economist in federal service. I retired on December 31. For the past 5 months, I have been a full time seminarian and pastoral intern. I also spent 3 months this spring as a chaplain intern and clinical pastor education (CPE) student.

Early on, I learned that I loved to sing. I sang in the children's choir at church. I sang in school choruses. I sang around the house. I sang along with the car radio. I sang with the albums playing on the stereo (I am dating myself with that one!).