Passavant Hosts 10th Annual Retired Pastors Gathering

Passavant Community was a welcoming venue for the 10th annual Retired Pastors Gathering, an event that brought together 60 retired pastors, including nine from the Passavant Community itself. The event saw an impressive turnout of 60 retired pastors, nine of whom are residents of Passavant Community.

“This is about more than sitting down and having a meal…we are companions of a special sort,” said Pastor Bob Hawk in his address to the group. “Retirees of a certain parish, but not of the gospel.”

The gathering featured a luncheon with a menu of chicken marsala and peach pie. The staff at Passavant Community went above and beyond to ensure the event’s success, demonstrating exceptional hospitality and care.

Bishop Kurt Kusserow of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod delivered heartfelt remarks. He paid tribute to the attendees and remembered those who had passed away, highlighting the enduring importance of the retired pastors within the community.

“We have roughly 200 ministers in our Synod, and roughly half of them are here. We acknowledge that roughly half of our roster is included in this community,” said Bishop Kusserow. “That tells me the people in this room are a significant part of ministry even now and not just on the side. Many of our retired pastors do interim work and supply work, and that is just invaluable to us.”

This milestone gathering was coordinated by Passavant resident Grace Kantz, wife of Rev. Frank Kantz.

Mrs. Kantz, one of the original members of the retirees committee, was honored for her 15 years of service. Her dedication and hard work were highlighted as instrumental in the event’s success, inspiring all present with her commitment to the community.

Speaking to the significance of the gathering, Mrs. Kantz remarked, “So we know we are not forgotten and not alone.”

The Retired Pastors Gathering highlights the deep bonds and significant contributions of the retired clergy, celebrating their ongoing roles in ministry and fellowship within the community.

“Today has been an inspiring day, meeting old friends and lots of new ones,” said Mrs. Kantz. “We’ve been doing this for ten years and look forward to doing this next year.”