2026 Luncheon for the Honorably Retired
On a hot July day in Long Valley NJ, after a hiatus of several years, Highlands Presbytery hosted a luncheon for retired pastors. They, their spouses, surviving spouses, and friends from the Presbytery and beyond, gathered for food, fun, and plenty of fellowship.
Presbytery Leader Jeanne Radak was the event’s emcee. Sandwiched between a lot of talking and a lot of eating, she had the group laughing and talking some more. Participants commented on the best sermon length, and shared tales of memorable potlucks and wardrobe malfunctions. Ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, a good time was had by all.
The lunch for those who have served so faithfully, and for the spouses that made it possible, was a result of the Presbytery’s recent Discernment Report. Approved in May 2025, the Report included:
Vision: To embody the love of Jesus Christ, the presbytery will host at least one annual gathering for retired pastors.
Action Steps:
Commission on Ministry moderators and the Presbytery Leader will plan an annual fellowship gathering for retired pastors and spouses.
This was the first — but not the last! — fulfillment of this vision of who the Presbytery is and is becoming.
Our thanks to the Long Valley Presbyterian Church and their pastor, Heather Morrison Yaden, for their hospitality and welcome.
