As pension benefit is highly influenced by one’s years of active, credited service to the church, a too-early retirement might reduce that benefit for the rest of one’s life.

If you live in church-supplied housing, you’ll lose your home at your retirement. Will you remain in the town or city where you are currently serving, or will you pair your retirement from active service to the church with a relocation?

The benefits differ for those aged 65 with Medicare. You will need to explore the options in the Episcopal Church Medical Trust.

You will not be attending the church you retire from for a while. If you live in a metropolitan area, you have many choices. If you live in a rural area, your choices are limited.

Support from colleagues and friends is essential. If you have hobbies or interests beyond the church, what choices will you make as to where and with whom you will devote your time and attention?

This is important to note particularly if you are married or partnered. There’s a joke that has gone around for many years. I married you for better or for worse, but not for lunch. The first months of retirement mean a rearranging of one’s calendar and schedules. Open and honest communication with one’s spouse or partner is as crucial during this time as with any other major change in the home situation.