By Pastor Charles Charles, retired

There are a large number of retired Lutheran pastors living in the Reading/West Berks Mission District area of our synod.

One of the highlight events for these pastors and their spouses (or widows of former pastors) is the monthly gathering for breakfast and fellowship. Meeting at Dempsey's Restaurant in Shillington, they find it a pleasant way to catch up on all the news, to share what’s going on in their lives, and to express concern and joy in times of significant events.

There are no programs or speeches, but the group does invite Pastor Mike Bennethum, associate of the bishop, to drop in and share the latest “scoop” from Wescosville and beyond. Mike is happy to share, but also comes to recruit help for congregations without a pastor.

The group averages between 20 and 25 in attendance at breakfast. There are no formal membership or attendance requirements. One needs simply to show up and order his/her own breakfast. Retired pastors from the East Berks District are invited to participate. The West Berks Mission District office gives secretarial support for occasional mailings. One of the spouses sends cards to individuals to note special occasions, both happy and sad.

To enhance the fellowship, the group gathers three times a year for lunch. Couples also have opened up their homes for summer picnics. This past year the group was entertained at the summer home of Priscilla and George Kinney at the Mt. Gretna resort and at the farm home of Johanna and Carl Adams.

The group invites all retired rostered leaders and spouses or widows “just to show up” at the restaurant on the first Thursday morning of the month at 9:00 a.m. Each person orders off the menu. There are no reservations or cancellations.

Do feel free to join this group for breakfast and fellowship!!