Age 65 to stay as clergy retirement age

Reversing its earlier stand, Diocesan Council has decided to keep 65 as the normal retirement age for clergy in the diocese.

In November, 2002, council had voted to raise the normal age of retirement to 70, and asked the Canons and Constitution committee to prepare an amendment to diocesan canons (bylaws) to that effect. Instead the committee last year reported back to council recommending more study.

Earlier this year, three other committees of council (Ministry and Congregational Development, Ordained Ministry, and Administration and Finance) all recommended against raising the retirement age.

The canons still provide that after age 65 clergy can apply to the bishop for permission to continue working. Permission must be renewed annually.