A year ago at this time, I was preparing for the official beginning of RETIREMENT. When people asked my dad what he thought of retirement, he replied, “I highly recommend it.” So far, I would agree with his sentiment.

When people have asked about my experience, I answer that I am continuing to do the parts of ministry I enjoy without the “other stuff.” The Zoom book groups I facilitate and the blog posts I write are enriching for me and, it seems, for quite a few others. I also get to guest preach once in a while. And I get to do these things without attending council or committee meetings, fussing with budgets, dealing with property issues, or smoothing the ruffled feathers of church members mad at each other or mad at me.

Most importantly, this blog and the book groups allow me to maintain the many friendships I have established through them, as well as meet new people who find their way to them. I so appreciate those relationships, as I know many of you do. I also appreciate the support so many of you have expressed for my efforts.

One of those expressions of support has been the financial contributions many of you have made over the past year. They are deeply appreciated. One of the reminders I got recently of my impending one-year anniversary of this project was the renewal notices for the online services that make it possible. Zoom, web site hosting, domain registration, and web site protection will cost almost $400 for 2025.

So, I decided that once-a-year I should make a formal request for support. To those who have already contributed: thank you! If you have not done so this year but feel you could, making a donation would be very helpful. Cumulatively, even $10 or $20 will make a big difference.

The easiest way to do contribute is by clicking on the Donate button on the blog web page, which uses PayPal. If you’re not a fan of PayPal, Zelle is an easy no-cost way to transfer money directly from your bank account to mine (check your bank website or app to see if it participates–most do). All you need is my email address, which is dougkings56@gmail.com. And then there is the traditional way: send a check via the US Mail. My address is: 2232 Calle Alvarado, Santa Fe, NM, 87505.

Even just a few years ago, I would never have imagined that my retirement would involve doing the things I am doing. Technology, like all human creations, is a mixed bag. But with its drawbacks, it has enabled humans to connect with each other in amazing ways. I am so grateful that you all have agreed to join me in this endeavor of trying to understand ourselves, our world, and the spiritual reality than fills and surrounds us. I look forward to another year of this adventure and wish you all,

Christmas blessings and peace in the new year,

Doug