Introducing the Seasoned Pastors Collective
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Practical Shepherding Launches New Initiative Connecting Seasoned Pastors with Younger Pastors
Louisville, KY – February 9, 2026 – Practical Shepherding, a global ministry committed to helping pastors thrive, is launching a new initiative designed to mobilize seasoned pastors—those 60 years and older—to serve as mentors for younger pastors navigating the challenges of ministry.
This new ministry, the Seasoned Pastor Collective, creates structured opportunities for experienced pastors to invest in, encourage, and guide younger pastors who often lack intentional mentorship. The initiative provides direction, training, and oversight for older pastors who desire to continue serving but may not know where to begin.
“Pastors who have faithfully served for decades carry invaluable wisdom and perspective,” said Brian Croft, Executive Director of Practical Shepherding. “We believe one of the greatest ways seasoned pastors can finish well is by helping the next generation endure in ministry.”
Purpose and Vision
The Seasoned Pastor Ministry reflects Practical Shepherding’s core conviction that the gospel is not only the means of salvation but also the power that sustains and sanctifies (1 Cor. 15:1–4; 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 Thess. 4:1–5). By connecting older and younger pastors, this initiative seeks to foster gospel-centered mentorship, strengthen local churches, and extend the legacy of faithful ministry across generations.
Program Highlights
• Monthly Cohorts: Seasoned pastors will gather regularly for training, encouragement, and soul care.
• Mentorship Pairings: Older pastors will be paired with younger pastors for one-on-one mentoring relationships.
• Resource Development: Practical Shepherding will produce articles, podcasts, and other tools to equip seasoned pastors in their final years of ministry.
• Global Engagement: The program includes a cross-cultural perspective to help pastors serve effectively in diverse contexts worldwide.
A Call to Seasoned Pastors
Many pastors approaching retirement wonder how their ministry influence will continue. The Seasoned Pastor Ministry provides a clear pathway for them to use their experience to build up younger pastors and strengthen the broader church.
“Retirement from full-time pastoral ministry does not mean retirement from gospel influence,” said Larry Riley, Seasoned Pastor Ministry Director at Practical Shepherding. “This initiative allows seasoned pastors to finish well by walking alongside the next generation.”
About Practical Shepherding
Practical Shepherding is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to help pastors thrive by providing training, resources, and mentoring rooted in gospel centrality. Through a global network, Practical Shepherding equips pastors to serve faithfully and endure in ministry.
For more information about the Seasoned Pastor Collective or to learn how to get involved, please visit practicalshepherding.com/seasonedpastor.
Media Contact:
Larry Riley
Seasoned Pastor Ministry Director
Practical Shepherding
Larry@practicalshepherding.org
(512) 550-9503