My name is Dr. John Mbugua.
In Africa, pastors serve in incredibly diverse and often difficult circumstances. Some receive small stipends—or nothing at all—yet they remain faithful to their calling. But along the way, important questions arise:
Who pastors the pastors?
Who do they confide in during personal struggles?
Who cares for their welfare?
Who prepares them for retirement?
Who helps them finish well in life and ministry?
These questions are what inspired my ministry—and eventually, my book.
The Heart Behind the Ministry
Our work focuses on both non-financial and financial retirement planning for clergy:
Non-financial planning: mental wellness, social networks, identity after retirement, and the productive use of time.
Financial planning: investment strategies, pension options, health insurance for seniors, financial behavior, and risk management.
We’ve reached many pastors through this ministry, but there was always one recurring need—to compile all our teaching materials into one accessible resource. That’s what led to my book, Shepherding the Sunset Years for Clergy, which has now been nominated. Glory to God.
How the Book Was Born
One day, I went to a bookshop in Garden Estate, Nairobi, to buy a book. That’s where I met Jackie. During our conversation, she mentioned a writing class by CLC, and I promised to join. I bought the book—and I kept my promise.
That decision changed everything. The CLC writing class ran for 14 weeks, and it was one of the best things to ever happen to me. They held my hand through the entire journey of becoming an author. I loved the assignments, the weekly prayers, the community of writers, and the spiritual fellowship.
In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I joined the next class—this time to work on a second book, focused on senior citizens and health insurance, which is currently in the pipeline.
A Word to Future Writers
If you’re considering writing a book, I strongly encourage you to take that step and join the class. CLC gave me the tools, encouragement, and environment I needed to bring my message to life.
To God be the glory as we do our best to support His servants—the pastors.
