For Jane Hines Upon Retiring

Letter to the Editor
by Terry Newland

Recent issues of your publication have reported that you, Jane Hines, Editor of the Voice for almost 26 years, are retiring shortly after the publication of this issue. I must tell you that I struggle with mixed feelings about your decision and believe that most, if not all of your readers have similarly conflicting reactions. While I am speaking only for myself, it would serve you well to realize that I am not alone on this matter.

Jane Hines

On the one hand, I am deeply saddened by your approaching retirement. I can’t remember a time when you were not a part of the Synod staff. Okay, I can, but just barely. You have been the communicator in my synod for most of my ordained ministry. Many have nurtured me along sections of that journey, but you have been a constant witness, teacher, pastor, colleague, and friend.

For those same reasons, the idea of your retirement also brings a smile to my face. You have worked long and hard and I am happy that you will now have the time and freedom to do many of the things that have been delayed by your commitment to us.

The temptation is to begin listing all those things about you for which I am grateful. Actually, I’ve tried and at least two problems emerge. For one thing, the list just keeps going on and on and on. The other is that it quickly begins to sound like a eulogy. Since you are retiring, not dying, I will simply give thanks for your continuing love.

Thank you for your deep and abiding love for God our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. Thank you for your steadfast love of the Presbyterian Church, even when it has infuriated you from time to time. Thank you for your constant love for our connectional nature which has led you to reach out beyond your congregation to other congregations, Presbyteries, Synods, General Assembly, denominations and faiths. Thank you for your persevering love for our particular synod.

Most of all, thank you for your love for me. You have been one of God’s amazing gifts to me and have taught me much about the faith we profess. Thank you for loving me even when we drastically disagree. Thank you for loving me even when I let you down. Thank you for loving me in the days to come even when it’s no longer a part of your job description.

By the way, you’re not done with all of this come March 1, 2006. You may not have the burden of publishing the Voice after then, but you’re not done with the loving thing. And neither are we.

The Peace of Christ be with you.