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Viewpoint from Rev Daniel Pritchard 12/09/2025
 Rev Daniel Pritchard
Chaplain – James Paget University Hospital
Reflecting on retirement
Almost unbelievably, the time has come – and in just a few weeks I will be retiring. After more than seven years as a Chaplain at the James Paget Hospital and many more in other places and different roles, it is time to… I nearly said ‘stop’ – but I wonder, is that how retirement should be regarded?
Someone once joked with me that they spelt retire with a ‘y’ not an ‘i’ – and I can relate to that idea. I confess I am glad to be stepping away from fixed obligations, no longer setting the early morning alarm and embracing the freedom use my time as I choose, to do some of the things I have been looking forward to. Yet I hope and anticipate that this will not just be retirement from activity, but towards new things; an opportunity to explore new ways in which to be productive and useful
 St Peter wrote "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (1 Peter 4:10 in the New Testament). He encouraged his readers to be productive and engaged, using their time, gifts, and resources for God's glory
Such an approach to life is surely commendable for any of us, whatever our belief or creed, isn’t it? It can apply to every stage of our lives and to whatever gifts and talents we may have. I certainly hope I still have something to offer in the future, even if I do so voluntarily
Lord Chesterfield, writing in the 18th Century, advised his son that idleness is ‘the holiday of fools’ and, although I understand what he meant and the wisdom of his advice, I have promised myself a genuine break, at least for a few months! A time to rest and reflect on priorities; to prayerfully listen and try to discern where any gifts I have might be useful; space to recalibrate and prepare for the future, to develop some healthy rhythms of activity and rest. After that, I doubt I shall be idle. We’ll see what opportunities may come my way, to give something back, to volunteer in a new capacity perhaps
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