At the close of the worship service on Sunday, Oct. 20, Dr. Bob Setzer, Jr., announced his retirement effective Jan. 31, 2025.
In his remarks to the congregation, Dr. Bob said, “Serving as your pastor for the past 13 years (effective Nov. 15) has been one of the greatest privileges of my life and certainly my most rewarding experience in pastoral ministry.
“But after over four decades in the full-time ministry of the church, I feel my soul yearning for a new chapter when I can spend more time with my beloved wife, Bambi, and with our daughter, Whitney, son-in-law, Jay, and grandsons, James (12) and Andrew (9).
“So effective Jan. 31, 2025, I will be retiring as your pastor. My last Sunday will be Sunday, Jan. 26.”
In response to the news of our pastor’s retirement, Knollwood’s chair of deacons, Spence O’Neill, said, “While we will miss Bob very much, we are grateful for his many years at Knollwood, and we trust that the period ahead will be a fruitful time of reflection and connection for our congregation as we move toward the next chapter of Knollwood’s history.”
Two congregational conversations — on Oct. 27 and Jan. 5 — have offered overviews of and updates about the transitional period ahead. A Bridge Team is developing initial plans for how Knollwood will approach transitional ministry, congregational dialogue, and a pastor search as the church continues to flourish in the months ahead.
Oct. 27, 2024: Conversation Recording | Conversation Slideshow
Jan. 5, 2025: Conversation Recording | Conversation Slideshow
Information will be shared through many channels and gatherings. Check back here for updates.
January will be a month to show our appreciation for Bob’s ministry at Knollwood, culminating in a big celebration in the Fellowship Hall on the afternoon of Sunday, Jan. 26, from 2-4 PM, with a brief program beginning at 3 PM.
