“Let the young people do it”
 
People giving this and similar responses have already filled most of the available offices and served on many committees and boards at least once.
 
There is a pretty strong case for the fact that those who have borne the task for a long time are entitled to step back a bit.  Retirees, even the oldest members of the congregation, can be excellent examples of every aspect of stewardship to younger generations as they continue to involve themselves appropriately.
 
Retirement?  What’s that?

• For centuries, people worked until they died.
• With Social Security, retirement became a new phenomenon.
• By 1970’s, we looked forward to the ‘Golden Years’ you retire to play.
• By 1990, you retire not only to play, but to learn, volunteer, travel or work part-time.

Observations related to retired stewards

1. Retirees can serve as models of mature stewardship for the next generation(s) to emulate.  These “seasoned citizens” have been blessed to be a blessing but their involvement in all aspects of stewardship needs to match their personal situations.
2. Retiree have spent their lifetime developing skills and learning trades that can benefit the congregation
3. Retirees can be a blessing as they stay active and enjoy the extended years that come through God’s blessing.
4. Retirees may need to be invited by their congregations to serve according to their gifts.
5. Retirees who deal with declining abilities can still serve the Lord and need to be encouraged to do so. They rejoice in being able to serve the Lord as valuable parts of the body of Christ.