As a retired pastor, now looking back and reflecting on my career, the thing I miss most is the interaction, friendships, hanging out together and “talking shop” with other pastors and ministers who “get it.” Every vocation has its own language, its own way of communicating that only those who share that vocation fully understand: “shop talk.” As the scriptures say, “iron sharpens iron.” I really miss those interactions and conversations with those who really understood me and my work. Their understanding helped me through some difficult days. In “shop talk” we will get to know each other, build some new friendships, exchange ideas (what’s working, what’s not), pray for each other, support each other, and we will learn together. There will be opportunities, teachable moments, where we will dig deeper into issues and topics of common interest, together finding solutions to complex problems we all face in ministry. I envision the likelihood of more structured times of learning together, educational forums on ministry-related topics, as well as discussion and exploration of ways to stay relevant and move forward. We will exchange ideas on how to manage the fast-evolving, changing world of ministry in today’s rapidly shifting culture. Most importantly, we will strive to be biblical and Christ-like in everything we do. We will treat each other with dignity and respect. If this appeals to you, come and go with us on this exciting new venture. Women and men in professional ministry, active or retired, are invited and encouraged to join this group. There is a nominal $9.00 per month subscription fee to help cover administrative costs. I’m confident your church or organization would gladly cover the monthly fee for something this valuable and helpful to your ministry. See you on the inside!l Pastor Dave