In Canada, there is no formal retirement age. That means officers (among others) can continue active as long as they want. This is a territory that has lost almost half of its active officer strength in the last 17 years or so (around 1600 to 836). There are more retired officers in Canada than active officers. What if 600 or 800 of the retired officers were reactivated?
To take it further, what if hundreds of active officers signed a promise and sent it to the cabinet letting the leaders know that we're not planning to retire and they can plan accordingly - they get another 15 + years of active war fighting out of us.
Might it change a whole culture?
Retired or not, let's get evangelising! People are heading to hell. Let's preach the loving Gospel that points out sin and Saviour, the choice of hell or Jesus, and the way through repentance and faith.
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The love of Jesus in you does not fail.
Much grace,
Stephen Court
3 comments:
There are many, many, many retired officers who are still 'informally' active. They work almost as hard in retirement as they did as actives - they are just not paid or recognised for it. Plus, I do believe that just about all retired's do continue to work for the kingdom - just not with a formal appointment.
Graeme Randall
Former Australian East in London
Go for it Stephen,send your letter to the Canadian cabinet, go for it! Be a postive example....No-one will stop you and many would applaud you for your integrity.
I think you could do at least another 20 years ( not 15) on active service beyond 67 - that is what I would call true commitment
Every blessing to you
Active UKT
Most officers when they are at age 65 or 66 need to slow down. They also need to have more personal time with family and other concerns. That does not mean that they care any less for ministry and the concern for lost souls but the "CONTROL" factor by the organization takes it's toll. Who at age 66 wants a 50 year old DC telling them that they are moving to (wherever) until they are 75 years old, (or other demands). The current (retirement system) in many countries served by the Army is so that an officer couple can retire and have their own housing. If they desire to minister (full time)from where their home is or a Corps within a close proximity, that is fine. Many do serve after official retirement as I see it in the USA, but older-age health issues come knocking on the door very often.
Stephen-I think a bit more practical approach is needed. Perhaps leadership at higher levels can make some CHANGES and adjustments so as to keep officers that are exiting. Also an extended request to many formers to return would be in order.That is a challenge but I have seen it in action.
Blessings,
USA West (returning to officership)
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