CAPTION: Recently retired clergy from across Devon gathered earlier this year in Exeter
New Dean of Retired Clergy flying the flag for more than 500 retired clergy colleagues
In the coastal community of Ilfracombe, North Devon, retired parish priest Giles King-Smith continues to serve the Diocese of Exeter with joy. After 26 years serving in Woolacombe and a career that included roles as Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands, Rural Dean, and Acting Archdeacon of Barnstaple, Giles retired nearly three years ago. Retirement hasn’t see him slowing down, though – in fact, it’s propelled him into a new kind of ministry.
Since 2023, Giles has led a team coordinating the Bishop’s Retired Clergy, Widows and Widowers Officers (BRCWOs) for the Diocese of Exeter. They offer friendship, pastoral care, and regular contact to fellow retired clergy and their families. Soon to be formally known as the ‘Dean of Retired Clergy’, Giles’ new title reflects the growing recognition of the importance of this ministry.
Giles also maintains the diocesan database of retired clergy and helps facilitate events that support spiritual reflection and transition. Notably, in the spring he co-led a session entitled ‘Who am I now?’ for newly retired clergy, and is planning a pre-retirement day next February to help those preparing for this next chapter.
Giles King-Smith will be the new Dean of Retired Clergy
When asked how many retired clergy are there in the diocese and how many are still involved in active ministry, Giles said: “This is the real eye-opener! At the last count, there were 537 retired clergy in Exeter Diocese, and 140 widows and widowers.
“342 people hold PtO (Permission to Officiate), which generally means they are involved in ministry in their local parish or Mission Community, but also sometimes more widely. Of course, the other 195 who don’t hold PtO still have much to offer the Church, in prayer, wisdom and care; and they are very much included in the ministry our BRCWOs offer, as are the clergy widows and widowers.”
Giles is urging the Church to move beyond polite appreciation and toward genuine engagement with retired clergy. “They are an astonishingly varied group of people who deserve our attention and care, and who also have valuable contributions to make. There is treasure to be found,” he said.
Getting to know your retired clergy
He encourages incumbents and Rural Deans to get to know their retired colleagues and explore the gifts they bring, not just in leading services, but in mentoring, prayer, and community life.
For church members, Giles offers thanks for their ongoing appreciation and invites them to learn more about their local BRCWO via the diocesan website or by contacting him directly.
Whether approaching retirement or already retired, clergy are encouraged to stay informed and connected. Giles recommends that you reach out if you haven’t heard from your local BRCWO. He also advises clergy to attend pre-retirement courses listed in the diocesan Cultivate publication and join the Devon Retired Clergy Association, which hosts regular meetings and study days (contact Rev. David Lewis at revdavidhlewis08@btinternet.com)
Retired clergy really matter,” Giles reminds us. Their legacy, wisdom and continued presence enrich the Church in countless ways. Above all, he asks for prayers for retired clergy, their families, and the BRCWO team who serve them with love and dedication.
For more information, or to get involved please click here.
