Presbytery’s Retiree Ministry

Our outreach to those who have served the church

In 2024, the Committee on Ministry of Presbytery of the Miami Valley identified an unfilled opportunity to coordinate, encourage, support, and resource pastoral care for retired clergy, retired Certified Educators, and surviving spouses.

Ruling Elder Janet Miller was commissioned to fill this role as she had earned a Certificate in Congregational Leadership from Dubuque Theological Seminary (2022) and earned a Certificate in Older Adult Ministries from Columbia Theological Seminary (2020). Additionally, she completed two units of Clinical Pastoral Education.

While Janet regularly sends emails, holiday cards and ordination anniversary cards, another of her tasks is hosting luncheons in the different areas of PMV for the retirees. The first was held at First Presbyterian Church of Troy, the second and third were in Dayton at Coco’s and Meadowlark restaurants, and May 19, 2026, they ventured south to Liberty Township and met at Cozy’s Restaurant. These luncheons have allowed conversation to flow and memories to be shared, all while enjoying delicious meals together with lots of laughter.

Meeting with groups of retirees has been rewarding, giving them time to talk and strengthen their relationships. Janet has also visited several beloved retirees in their homes and called others to introduce herself and chat.

These efforts help to ensure that our presbytery’s retirees know they are appreciated and not forgotten after many years of ministry.

Some words of wisdom from our retirees

Advice to pass along: Things work out, trust. Rewards of getting older: Having time for self-care and saying ‘yes’ to things that matter. Words for a new pastor: This won’t be 40-hour weeks, have boundaries, define limits, know when to say ‘yes’ and when to say ‘no’. Life advice: Never give up, don’t close doors, especially on relatives. Finding happiness: Develop relationships and find your tribe. Reminiscing: Look back with appreciation and respect for spiritual inheritance.