Ep. 314: Introducing the Seasoned Pastor Collective
In this episode of Trench Talk, Brian Croft, Jim Savastio, and Larry Riley announce the launch of the Seasoned Pastor Collective—a new Practical Shepherding initiative mobilizing older and retired pastors to mentor younger men. Rooted in 2 Timothy 2:2 and Paul’s example in Acts 20, they share powerful stories of the mentors who shaped them, the painful cost of going without such guidance, and the quiet crisis of lonely, isolated pastors. If you’re a pastor longing for a spiritual father—or a seasoned shepherd wondering if your race is really done—this conversation will challenge, comfort, and reawaken your calling.
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(01:33) Biblical Foundation for Older Men Investing in Younger Men
(04:54) Larry Riley’s Story and Early Mentoring Burden
(06:38) Key Mentors in Larry’s Life
(07:41) Jim Savastio’s Conversion and Formative Mentors
(10:18) Brian Croft’s Experience and the Need for Spiritual Fathers
(12:33) Why This Matters: The Rarity of Real Mentorship Today
(15:28) What’s Going Wrong? The Mentoring Gap
(17:24) On-the-Ground Reality for Young Pastors
(19:15) Why Aren’t Older Pastors Mentoring? Jim’s Diagnosis
(23:55) Official Launch: The Seasoned Pastor Collective
(24:41) How the Seasoned Pastor Collective Works (Older Pastors Side)
(27:08) How to Join as a Seasoned Pastor
(28:20) Training & Vetting: Why Experience Alone Isn’t Enough
(30:51) The Joy of Investing in Younger Pastors
(32:04) What Makes Mentoring So Rewarding?
(33:31) Closing Prayer for the Collective