Elders and Deacons have a special relationship with their head pastor. They collaborate, trust each other even rely on each other for counsel. So while the church should definitely play a part in pastor retirement celebrations, Elders and Deacons should have some special gestures planned for the more intimate group.
Sailboat Retirement Gift
Book Retirement Plaque
Trinity Retirement Gift
The simplest way to honor a retiring pastor is to put pen to paper. Each Elder and Deacon should write a note, poem, essay or verse analysis dedicated to their retiring pastor. One person can then collect the writings and put them all in a vintage suitcase or engraved wooden box and present the whole collection as a parting gift. This wooden suitcase by Décor Universe would make a lovely vessel.
It almost goes without saying that the head Elder or Deacon should probably make a speech about the retiring pastor. If you’d rather not choose one, single representative, you can elect an “open mic” format instead where everyone is welcome to say a few words in honor of pastor.
Finally, it is a nice gesture to leave a lasting memento of the pastor’s tenure behind; something he or she can always return to. It can be more symbolic, like naming a small chapel or prayer room after your retiring pastor, and investing in a metal plaque that announces the name change, or you can do something a little more elaborate. Engrave some bricks on the church walkway or erect a stone bench in the church garden. If your pastor spent a long time with your church specifically, this sort of tribute will mean the most.
