A Liturgy For Retirement From Work And Redirection In Vocation

The following liturgy may be used at the occasion of a retirement. It expresses thanksgiving for the blessings of work, petitions for God's continued direction, and promises of commitment to future service in God's kingdom. This service may be adapted for use in the local parish.

Introduction to the Service Major transitions in the lives of individuals are marked in every culture; usually they are termed "?rites of passage.?" Both the individual and society need support during times of traumatic change. The retirement from regular employment is one such change. The Christian faith proclaims the hope that work roles can be let go and life can continue with meaning and vocation. The church invites persons retiring to share this moment with the community of faith. Prior time should be allowed by the person retiring to meet with the chief minister of the rite to discuss life in retirement. A part of this counseling would include planning the liturgical celebration with special attention given the direction of life in service to Christ and the world. This redirection is contained in the commitment to Christian service and includes a statement of specific responsibility to the parish or community. This act concludes with the renewal of baptismal vows. A priest or a bishop normally presides at the Celebration of Retirement and Redirection, because such ministers have the function of pronouncing blessing and celebrating the Holy Eucharist. When both a bishop and a priest are present and officiating, the bishop should pronounce the blessing and preside at the Eucharist. A deacon, or another assisting priest, may read the Gospel, deliver the sermon and charge, and perform other assisting functions at the Eucharist. With no participating bishop or priest, a deacon may use the service that follows, omitting the blessing. It is desirable that lay persons from the family, the workplace, and friends of the person retiring read the lessons from the Old Testament and the Epistle and lead the Litany of Thanksgiving for New Vocation. In the gathering statement (at the symbol [N.N.]), the full names of the retiring person are stated. Subsequently, only the person's Christian name [Name] is used. Following the declaration of retirement and during the liturgy of the Word, the person retiring is seated with family and friends until the presentation. Everyone remains standing until the conclusion of the collect. At the offertory, it is desirable that the bread and wine be presented to the ministers by the retiring person, family, and friends. They may remain at the altar to receive Holy Communion before other members of the congregation. Communion is always offered to every baptized person present. The most appropriate hymns for the Celebration of Retirement and Redirection may be hymns that offer thanksgiving for the blessings of work and promise continued service to God's kingdom, as well as those familiar and favorite ones of the person retiring. Whenever possible, immediately following the rite, a reception, dinner, or other gathering is held to encourage sharing important events in the retiring person's life by family, faith community, friends, and coworkers. The Service At the appropriate time, the person retiring assembles with the family, friends, and coworkers in the church or other suitable place. For the entrance, a hymn, psalm, or anthem may be sung, or instrumental music may be played. The person retiring enters during this procession. When everyone is assembled, with the retiring person facing the celebrant, the celebrant addresses the congregation, saying: Dear friends, today we have gathered in the presence of God to give thanks for the accomplishments of work and to celebrate a new vocation in retirement. When God had accomplished his work of creation, he looked upon his completed work, proclaimed that it was very good, and instituted Sabbath rest. The Sabbath rest of God is a pattern for retirement life. The Creation was completed, but the loving, active care of God for his creation continues to this moment. Our Lord Jesus Christ completed his earthly work of salvation on the Cross declaring, "?It is finished,?" after which Scripture and our own faith witness to the hope of eternal life through Christ's resurrection life. We rejoice in the work God the Creator has given to us to do; but we also affirm that the value of a person is based on more than work done through gainful employment. Baptism made us members of God's family and gave us intrinsic worth. Our work always is a means of joining in God's creative purpose for life. Yet the promise of a Sabbath from employment is not the end of living or usefulness. Retirement calls for commitment to redirecting life to the service of God, humanity, and creation. Therefore, retirement life is entered by reaffirming baptismal membership in God's family and offering to God a new vocational commitment. [N.N.] has come today to celebrate retirement and commitment to redirected living. With the ending of full-time employment, there is new opportunity to offer service to God. [Name], retirement is a moment of giving up activities that have provided definition for too much of your life. However, from baptism we understand that ultimate significance in life is in relationship with God and service to him and his world. Will you redirect your life to new ways of God's service? (The person retiring responds:) I will, with God's help. (The celebrant then addresses the congregation, saying: ) Will all of you witnessing this commitment support [Name] in retiring from employment and redirecting his/her life to a new vocation? People: We will. The Ministry of the Word Celebrant: The Lord be with you. People: And also with you. Celebrant: Let us pray. Eternal God, Creator and Renewer of life, you continually call us to a rhythm of work and Sabbath rest. In the Sabbath rest of retirement, may we discover new meaning for life and new opportunities for serving you. We offer thanks for [Name] and his/her years of faithful work. May your Spirit bless his/her coworkers and continue work done through you, even as he/she now retires. Give him/her a fulfilling redirection of life committed to you; through Jesus Christ, the beginning and ending of life. Amen. (Then one or more of the following passages from Holy Scripture is read. A period of silence may follow each reading. The reading of a passage from the Gospel always concludes the readings.) Genesis 1:26–2:3—God turns from work to rest. Genesis 12:1–7—Abram and Sarai are called to new life. Deuteronomy 8:1–10—Future fulfillment is with the Lord. Ecclesiastes 3:1–11—There is a time for all of life. Jeremiah 29:11–13—promised hope for the future Romans 12:1–8—Conform gifts to God's transformation. 1 Corinthians 12:4–13—varieties of gifts and services Ephesians 4:1–8, 11–16—growing to full maturity 1 Timothy 5:3–10—dedicated living for elder women 1 Timothy 6:5–12—Faith is the source of enduring riches. 2 Peter 1:3–11—God provides for the full life. 1 John 5:13–15—strength in assurance of eternal life Revelation 7:13–17—joy in following Christ Revelation 21:1–7—God constantly renews. (Between the readings, a Psalm, hymn, or anthem may be sung or said. Appropriate Psalms are 23; 46; 92:1–4, 11–15; 121; 128; 145:13b–21; 148.) (Then all stand, and the deacon or minister appointed says:) The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to . People: Glory to you, Lord Christ. Matthew 7:7–12—Seek and God provides. Matthew 16:24–28—continuing to follow Christ Mark 12:28–34—the full life of loving God and neighbor Luke 12:22–34—Don't be anxious; trust God. Luke 19:1–10—Jesus finds inherent worth. John 3:1–8—new birth at any age John 13:1–5, 12–17—commitment in Christ's service John 15:8–17—bearing the lasting fruit of love (After the Gospel, the reader says:) The Gospel of the Lord. People: Praise to you, Lord Christ. The Sermon (At the conclusion of the sermon, the person retiring stands and is addressed in these or similar words:) My brother, [Name], at baptism every Christian accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of life, a life committed to serving God the Father through the strengthening presence of the Holy Spirit. As a Christian, you are called in all circumstances, by word and example, to bear witness to the Good News of God in Christ. As a Christian, in accordance with the gifts you are given, you are to carry on Christ's work of reconciliation in the world. Also, you are called to continue to take your place in the life, worship, and governance of Christ's church. The conclusion of this commitment is that in our Christian journey, Christ is leading us into a pilgrimage in which we leave the familiar to engage a new life direction. Are you prepared to retire from your present employment and redirect your life toward opportunities that God presents? (The person retiring says:) I am prepared, with God's help. The Retirement Celebrant: [Name], you have been assured of support in the opportunities of your retirement living. Each of us at baptism is given gifts by the Holy Spirit for the community's good. These gifts do not diminish or end with retirement from employment. As we have given thanks for the accomplishments of the past, we now look to the future as you offer yourself to your new way of life in this act of commitment. (Facing the congregation, the retiring person makes a commitment to the service of Christ, undertaking special responsibilities in retirement living. Included in this act should be the giving of a work symbol, representing the end of employment, to persons of the former place of employment. Also, a symbol of the new commitment may be presented to the person retiring by representatives of the new service or the congregation. The act of commitment concludes with the following committal act and the renewal of baptismal vows.) (The person retiring kneels and says:) Almighty God, you have sustained me throughout my employment; and now I thank you for the strength you have given to have reached retirement and the opportunity to redirect my life in new ways of serving you and the community. As the future unfolds, may all my fear be set aside through deepening trust in your daily grace; through Jesus Christ, the Lord of Life. Amen. (After this act, the retiring person stands and the celebrant says these or similar words:) In the name of this congregation, I commend you to this new life, and pledge you our prayers, encouragement, and support, through God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. People: Amen. The Renewal of Baptismal Vows

Celebrant: Let us stand and join [Name] in renewing our baptismal life. Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil and renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?

People: I do. Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Father? People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. Celebrant: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God? People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Celebrant: Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? People: I will, with God's help. Celebrant: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord? People: I will, with God's help. Celebrant: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? People: I will, with God's help. Celebrant: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself? People: I will, with God's help. Celebrant: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being? People: I will, with God's help. The Prayers of God's Gifts in the New Life Celebrant: Please rise and let us pray together in the words our Savior taught us. People and Our Father in heaven, Celebrant: hallowed be your Name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen. (If Communion is to follow, the Lord's Prayer may be omitted here. The deacon or other persons, such as family, coworkers, and friends, lead the following litany:) Deacon: Let us pray. Eternal God, creator and preservers of all, giver of the grace to be co-workers and the hope of meaningful living: Continue the saving work of your Son through your Spirit in our midst, particularly for [Name], who comes seeking your blessing in his/her retirement. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Grant that his/her retirement be an instrument for serving the common good and a witness against casual human abuse in work or leisure; and may the personal increase in leisure become a time for opening to new growth. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Give him/her, as he/she leaves the accomplishments and frustrations of the workplace, a sense of gratitude for those who have shared his/her journey. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Grant him/her wisdom and understanding in the ordering of his/her retirement life, that aging may be seen as a vital part of your eternal order; that he/she may be blessed with a hopeful perspective to guard against a narrowing of life; that his/her aging may be valued as a time to be a bridge to past, present, and future gifts. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Grant that as his/her aging compels the conserving of personal energy, he/she may see the need to revere the resources of nature and, rather than wasting them, find ways of working with you in creation, so future generations may enjoy your abundance. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Give him/her thankfulness for all who have made the life journey with him/her thus far, especially (family, friends, and coworkers may be named); and as we remember that your Son Jesus taught that all who do your will are related, may you keep this family in your continual care. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. [Optional]: Deacon: [Make his/her marriage to N., who has shared his/her life, a source of deepening oneness, friendship, encouragement, understanding, and love.] People: [Give grace to your servant, O Lord.] [Optional]: Deacon: [Give him/her continuing joy in the gift and heritage of his/her children (Names may be used; and, if appropriate, grandchildren, also with names). As parent (and grandparent), may he/she find satisfaction in caring, and may the children respond with honoring love.] People: [Give grace to your servant, O Lord.] Deacon: Grant him/her a vision of Christ's eternal hope that, as more and more of those he/she cares for leave this earthly city, no desolation may overcome him/her and that his/her soul may be nourished and strengthened with the bread of your presence for the rest of his/her pilgrimage. People: Give grace to your servant, O Lord. Deacon: Grant that all who have witnessed this retirement and redirection of life, especially the retired and those nearing retirement, may find their future encouraged and their faith confirmed. May the eternal strength of Almighty God support us until the evening of our life comes and retirement activity ends; then in the grace of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit may we be granted a safe lodging, a holy rest, and peace at last. Amen.

The Blessing of the Retiring Person (The people remain standing, while the retiring person kneels and the priest says the following blessing:) Let us pray. Eternal God, the beginning and end of life: We give you thanks for [Name]'s work among us; may he/she remember this labor with satisfaction. Bless his/her new commitment, and grant him/her courage and vision, joy and hope, patience and wisdom in retirement. May God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit bless, preserve, and keep you; may the Lord mercifully look upon you with his favor, and fill you with spiritual benediction and grace; that you may live faithfully now, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen. The Peace (The celebrant may say to the people:) Let us share in the joy of [Name]'s retirement and greet each other in the peace of the Lord. The peace of the Lord be always with you. People: And also with you. (The newly retired person exchanges greetings with family, friends, and throughout the congregation.) At the Eucharist (The liturgy continues with the Offertory, at which the newly retired person and selected others may present the offerings, which may include symbols of the new vocation and gifts previously given, along with the bread and wine. During the offertory, a Psalm, hymn, or anthem may be shared.) (The Communion continues with the Great Thanksgiving, using the selected eucharistic prayer.) (For the preface the following is used:) For as you turned from the good work of creation to Sabbath rest; and your Son completing his earthly work of salvation opened the heavenly way for us; by the Holy Spirit you bless us in retirement and guide our redirection in eternal hope. (At the Communion, it is appropriate for the newly retired person and selected others to receive Communion first, after the ministers. Also, during Communion appropriate hymns and anthems may be sung.) The Postcommunion Prayer (In place of the usual postcommunion prayer, the following is to be said:) Almighty God, we give you thanks for binding us together in these holy mysteries of the body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ, and for uniting us to the saints at work and at rest. Grant that by your Holy Spirit, [Name], now retired, may continue faithfully in word and action, in love and patience, and in hope and joy in his/her new commitment and obtain those eternal joys promised to all who are born of the Spirit; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (The service concludes with the blessing and a dismissal, which may be in these words:) Let us go forth living for Christ. People: Thanks be to God. As the newly retired person leaves, a hymn, psalm, or anthem may be sung, or instrumental music may be played. The celebration may continue with greeting the newly retired person. Without Eucharist (When Communion is not to follow, the service concludes with the blessing and a dismissal, which may be in these words:) Let us go forth living for Christ. People: Thanks be to God. A hymn, psalm, or anthem may be sung, or instrumental music played as the newly retired person leaves. The celebration may continue with greeting the newly retired person. Commentary on the Liturgy The title of this liturgy attempts to incorporate three important elements common to rites of life passage: first, a separation from the old lifestyle; then a period of transition and recognition; and finally, there is incorporation into the new lifestyle. The wedding service is a very clear model of this pattern. For marriage, two persons are presented, and with them come their very distinct family traditions. Through the public declaration of vows, a commitment to oneness in a new life is established. So too in this retirement rite, many diverse components of an individual's life gather, as symbolized by the gathering of coworkers, family, friends, and believers. Through this rite, public witness is made to the movement away from employment and toward a commitment, under God's guidance, to a vital new lifestyle. Lay Involvement. Participatory worship is a hallmark of Anglicanism; therefore, rather than having the clergy perform, with the laity simply observing, opportunities for lay leadership are encouraged. The lay reading of Scripture is significant. A principal act of the Reformation was to return the Bible to the people as trustworthy sharers in receiving God's Word. Whenever possible, lay persons should participate in proclaiming the Word of God. Once again, not only is the retiree honored by bringing forward the elements for Communion, but the importance of the total community—clergy and laity—participating together is emphasized. This is a reminder that a priest or bishop cannot celebrate the Eucharist alone. The elements for Communion represent our total lives being offered to Christ's service; this point is even more evident when the elements come forward from the body of the congregation. Hymns. Hymn singing is one of the most effective ways to involve the total congregation in the worship of the church. Even though there be gifted choristers and musicians available, this important people's part of the worship should be included if at all possible. There is a list of suggested appropriate hymns; however, the retiring person's selection of particularly meaningful hymns can add to the special significance of this service for all who gather. The music chosen offers another way of celebrating the uniqueness of the retirement event. Following the Liturgy. With time constraints and other realities, not everyone who wishes to speak can be given time and everything desirable cannot be said during the liturgy. So, even though a retiring person may want to keep what seems to be "?fuss and bother?" to minimum, the total community needs a time following the service to gather and share further. This gathering need not be elaborate or costly. The fact is that, whether the gathering be a simple reception or elaborate dinner, the people come to be with and express their care to the retiree. Rubrics. This service presumes that an active Christian would expect this celebration (as with other high points in life) to naturally belong in one's home church. There the familiarity and hospitality shared among family and Christian brothers and sisters can be extended to the larger community of friends and work associates. Of course, for good reason, the service may need to be held at home or in another location; however, celebrating this event in the church offers a natural aspect of witness in bringing work associates and non-church friends to the "?faith-home.?" A sense of continuity, of belonging to a greater fellowship than employment affords, is gained within the observance in the home church with familiar clergy and parishioners. Being "?at home?" among the familiar contributes to the celebrative, supportive atmosphere, as at a baptism, a wedding, or even a funeral. The hope is that just as the expected place for a wedding now is in church, in the future the normal place for Christian retirement rites will be in the church. Service Music. Music gathers us—hearts, minds, and spirits. Hymns sung together further community feeling and encourage participation throughout the liturgy. Of course, other forms of music may need to be used. Whatever form the music takes, the person retiring should be involved in the selection. Just as the entrance of the retiree focuses attention on the observance of a personal relationship with God, the music selection can help particularize this event. This service, from the entering to the leaving, lifts before God this individual's retirement and the significance of this transition in life. Gathering Address. The gathering statement makes no presumption about the faith commitment or worship familiarity of the congregation. In fact, the service assumes that the congregation is made up of persons who first are there to witness and support the individual's retirement and redirection. However, this event differs greatly from secular retirement observances, which tend to simply provide a closure for work life. From their entrance into the church, the gatherers are reminded of God's presence and the eternal nature of what is taking place. Of course, the expected celebration of the accomplishments of work takes place. However, there is also a new element; those gathered will also witness the retiring person's commitment to a new direction, a new vocation within retirement. This service is a resounding no to suggestions of "?rocking to death?" in six months. The emphasis here is that human beings are not simply producers, that they are valued beyond work. Within this liturgy, participants are recalled to the point where initial worth is established—baptism. For most people, baptism is a time of total dependence. God acts through baptism to give us value, when we can be only receivers of God's grace. From the start, this liturgy offers opportunities to honor past work and also to focus on a future of hope-filled living based on a new commitment to God. Commitment to Retirement. The public declaration of a willingness to retire brings the issue of closure to the surface. It is important that the retiree consciously consent to this act of leaving; and the public declaration of that consent establishes the retiree's new position. This response recognizes that successful retirement living is not just individual will and effort; God is to be counted on—"?with God's help?"—as in other transitions in life. Congregational Affirmation. Faith in the incarnation of God is witnessed by directing attention to the congregation as the body of Christ. Trusting in Christ's presence in the midst of this event is a key difference from secular observances. The congregants are not just spectators. They are called to be witnesses and to actively support the retiree in establishing a new lifestyle. By directly involving the congregation, the hope is that everyone present will reflect also upon the personal nature of retirement, whether their own retirement has already occurred or is in the distant future. Scripture Selections. As with other aspects of living, the Bible gives insight into issues connected with retirement and the redirection of life. By thoughtful Scripture selection, the retiring person can share with others the pattern of God's call to his or her future living. The opportunity to involve laity in reading should be encouraged. Participative support is enacted by those who read; also, through this action they can gain further understanding of the service. A variety of people participating here and throughout the service is a clear call for retirement to be lived in community. Since this service is one of proclamation of Christ's presence, a Gospel lesson always concludes the readings. Sermon. The sermon is not expected to be a eulogy. Illustrating the proclamation of God's Word with meaningful moments from the retiree's life would give specificity to this occasion; however, this time is to preach Christ. With a congregation including a variety of faith commitments, some emphasis could be given to proclaiming the difference between secular and Christian retirement. The sermon might stress the continuing benefit of having the Lord's supporting presence and guidance, thus giving signs of hope to the retiree and others. The continuing relationships within the church can be especially helpful when much of what gave meaning to day-to-day living has changed. The concluding statement of the sermon directly addresses the retiring person. To conclude this way is similar to the practice at ordination services; and in this connection, it serves to declare that this service paves the way for a new vocation. The charge is based on the catechism and suggests that the Christian way of life is for all ages. These statements serve to remind the retiree that the issue is not retirement from living but retirement to a new lifestyle. To encourage awareness of the reality of this moment, the retiring person is given a personal call to face retirement directly and turn to a new vocation. The time to lay aside present employment has come. And the response to this call—"?I am prepared, with God's help?"—indicates forethought for this moment and for life ahead. Also, acknowledgment is given that for this believer, the redirection is not "?solo.?" Our God gives promises that can be counted upon. The Retirement. To further localize this event, the service moves to a public act of retirement. Just as our God became flesh and dwelt among us, the moment of retirement is "?fleshed-out,?" incarnated in real time. The retiring person is not left to peruse this moment alone. The support of the community is represented by selected family members and former work partners who accompany the retiree to the altar. The retiring person stands at the altar before the celebrant, who represents the solemnization of this event in God's presence. The celebrant expressly invites Christ's support for the future. Congregational support already has been shown by the accompanying persons. However, they are encouraged to be even more expressive by commenting on the retiree's accomplishments and how much he or she will be missed. Also, symbolic gifts of appreciation, representative of the work being left, may be presented. Of course, if there are many gifts, just a few are selected for this time, with the others saved for the events following the service. This action provides a valuable opportunity to publicly let go of the work relationship. Now the possibility is open for other commitments. With the turn made toward the future, the celebrant reminds everyone that, for the Christian, personal worth does not depend on the products of the work world, but on the baptismal moment of birth into God's family. All the rest of life is a response to God's gracious declaration of our worth. And although this value may be given special meaning thorough engagement in the market-place, retirement is an opening of yet another valuable stage. The Act of Commitment. This act makes clear the move from the workaday world to retirement living. The retiring person commits to this very important step in words and acts carefully crafted during the preretirement counseling and a time of personal reflection. The wedding service stresses that none should enter marriage "?unadvisedly or lightly,?" and this same strong emphasis must be made in anticipation of successful retirement. As with the exchanging of wedding rings, the new status may be symbolized by giving and receiving objects. The finality of departing the workplace is acknowledged by the retiree giving a symbol to a representative of the former employment. For example, an architect may return her blueprint or a teacher may return his class attendance book. Hopefully, this symbolizing will be in a more positive spirit than suggested by the associate who said, "?Great! Give '?em back their clock!?" Stepping into retirement can be celebrated by representatives of the new commitment giving a symbol; for example, a person becoming a lay visitor at a hospital could be given a stack of patient cards. This presentation comes just before the retiree kneels to seal the commitment in prayer to God. Again, a significant difference exists between this rite and a secular retirement, where emphasis is on closure and where "?gallows humor?" generally prevails when the future is contemplated. Instead of looking only to the past, the retiring person reaches toward the future, trusting in a partnership with God. The "?solemnization?" of this commitment is then declared by the celebrant and responded to by the congregation. Here, too, the retiree is assured that he or she does not walk alone. There is definite intention to continue in relationship with God and the community. The Renewal of Baptismal Vows. Whenever a new venture is taken, the way is made easier by familiar accompaniments. Hopefully, this renewal of vows will be one of these "?accompaniments.?" The baptismal vows were part of our new birth in Christ; and since that event on many significant occasions (even annually at Easter), a renewal of baptismal vows has taken place. Now this renewal is the first action in retirement—witnessing a belief in God and commitment to Christian living. Personal faith is affirmed. However, this renewal is not private; the total community also acclaims this time of retirement and redirection as a moment of reaffirmation of faith. What could have been simply a private affair thus becomes an opportunity for community renewal. The Prayers. A natural response to sharing a special event in life with someone is giving a gift, as with birthdays and weddings. For Christians the best gift is intentionally praying for someone. The prayer portion begins with the Lord's Prayer as a summary of all our concerns before God. Personal preference is encouraged by providing a choice of the traditional or ecumenical form of the prayer. It is significant that the first prayer spoken in retirement by the person and congregation is encouragingly familiar and opens the way for the unique prayers and blessing. The prayer "?gifts?" for this occasion are then given. An important opportunity for involvement is afforded when these prayers are offered by persons close to the retiring person. The litany form also encourages active participation by the whole congregation. Participatory prayers underscore the congregation's important role as an active witness, rather than a disinterested audience. Themes important to retirement and redirection are offered in each litany segment. The congregational responses stress God's grace, so vital for all living, as the key ingredient here. Significant to these prayers are the options to include the spouse, children, and even grandchildren. Since quite often the retiree is accompanied by the spouse of many years and by adult children, it is as important to include them as any other aspect of work or retirement would be included. And for many people, the "?jewels?" of this stage in life are grandchildren, who may be remembered in prayer. This litany gives thanks for accomplishments, seeks guidance and strength for the future, and concludes with the comforting assurance expressed by John Henry Newman. The Blessing. The primary difference between this service and a secular celebration is the enjoinment of God's blessing upon the retiring person. Hopefully, as this service invites God's partnership now and in retirement, the uniquely positive atmosphere created by our Lord's presence at the wedding in Cana may be experienced. The hope is that future participation in sacred celebrations of retirement will establish positive outcomes such as those seen when comparing "?church?" and "?civil?" weddings. We trust God's blessing to reverberate from this moment through the rest of life. The Peace. The natural desire to express joy for and with the retiring person is released in the ancient Christian practice of sharing "?the peace.?" Some may have the feeling that they are about to "?explode?" at this moment. So the liturgy frees everyone up for a celebrative encounter. Of course, the hope is that sharing the peace will be expressing the joy of Christ. However, the risk of missing the significance is the same risk taken in the first instance of having this liturgy. God's special blessing of the retiree now spills over onto all. The Eucharist. Continuing the liturgy with Communion presents the opportunity for the completeness of our Lord's promise to nourish us with his presence. From baptismal birth throughout growing up, with accomplishments and crises, the Supper of the Lord has been there. At the end of employment, there is the tradition of the banquet; even more appropriate at this celebration is the eucharistic banquet. Of course, Christ's inclusiveness as Savior comes in the invitation for all baptized persons to receive Communion. The symbolizing of the new vocation in the offertory should be done and done with forethought. The retiring person has a unique opportunity to lay his or her self on God's altar saying, "?Here I am, Lord; send me.?" This act could be a profound witness to nonbelievers. For the retiree to be joined by family, coworkers, or friends in presenting the gifts is to share the blessings. This time can be a particular tribute of thanks to God for the companionship of a spouse throughout the work life. If the messages of the various eucharistic prayers are studied before a choice is made, the prayer selected can offer another unique moment. The specific preface recalls God's works of salvation and encourages trust in the guidance of the Holy Spirit right now. Postcommunion. As with other milestone celebrations, a specific postcommunion prayer of thanksgiving is provided. A final reminder is given of our union with all the saints through partaking in the Eucharist. Significantly, the retiring person is named and the reason for the gathering is proclaimed once more. Blessing and Dismissal. God's blessing sends the congregation to their livings, especially the retiring person to the new life. In addition to those already provided, a specific dismissal is provided which stresses continuing the active life in Christ. The retiring person joins in recessing so that he or she may be ready to greet those who have shared this very special time. Also, the retiree could invite others, who have been important to the work journey, to join the recessional. Without Eucharist. For the active communicant, Holy Communion normally will be a part of the retirement service, just as it will continue nourishing the rest of life. However, good cause may preclude the Lord's banquet. In this case, a simple prayer service ending is provided, which includes a special dismissal. Here also the recessional points to a time of greeting the newly retired person. Following the Service. At the conclusion of the service, a reception or dinner is strongly encouraged as an occasion for celebration. The number of participants is limited in the structure of the service; thus, there is the distinct possibility that others wishing to add congratulations and blessings would be disappointed without some forum. Many times only a sampling of gifts and mementos can be presented during the service. So this after-service gathering time is very important for closure to the retiree's employment and opening to the future. How this time is structured should be the choice of the retiring person; but, whether a simple reception in the parish hall or an elaborate banquet in a restaurant, the point is to honor the very real need of those attending the service. In addition to further expressions to the retiree, this time also affords due recognition of the spouse, other family members, and special persons who have supported the honoree throughout the work years.