Ordination to the Priesthood, in the Church of England, is understood as a life-long vocation. You remain ordained as a priest after retiring from office and have a vocation to ministry even if it takes a different form in retirement. Retirement does not mean that the demands of your vocation have ceased, although your ministry may take a different form with fresh challenges.
If you would like to discuss your forthcoming retirement, or have recently retired and would like to explore further your future ministry, please email the Revd Dr Simon Hill, Bishop’s Retirement Officer or telephone 01284 754110.
Bishops' Widow(ers) Officers
The Revd Canon Alan Forsdike or the Revd Catherine Forsdike are the Bishops' Widow(ers) Officers do email them if you have any questions concerning our ministry to widow(er)s of retired clergy or would appreciate assistance.
Suffolk Clergy Charity
The Suffolk Clergy Charity supports the well-being of retired clergy and their family in a variety of ways.
Retired clergy are all those who either receive a clergy pension or who are entitled to hold a ‘Permission to Officiate’ certificate within the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese, and who either live within the diocese or who were at one time licenced to the diocese. Widow(er)s of retired clergy are also eligible for support from the Suffolk Clergy Charity. Charity no. 1002233.
For further information, please send an email to suffolkclergycharity@cofesuffolk.org. Or alternatively, please download our leaflet including an application form:
Leaflet | PDF
You may complete the application form in the booklet and email the form to make a grant application to: suffolkclergycharity@cofesuffolk.org. Or complete the online form below.
The Suffolk Clergy Charity is also able to assist you should you wish to make a grant application to other appropriate charities, such as the Clergy Support Trust and the Frances Ashton Charity:
www.francesashton.co.uk | Weblink
www.clergysupport.org.uk | Weblink
We are here to help you, whatever your circumstances.
