Pastor Bob Shipps announces retirement plans ...

... by driving tractor into sanctuary!

Robert Shipps, pastor of Austin Grace Church of the Nazarene for the past 10 years, decided to announce his plans to retire to the congregation in a creative way: By driving his tractor into the sanctuary.

"Pastor Bob," who recently purchased an old farm ... uh ... somewhere northeast of Texas, restored an old tractor ("Cecil," pictured, named affectionately for a deceased member of the Austin Grace congregation whose property it was on), and had his first grandchild, decided it was time to "start a new chapter in life" and retire.

Pastor Bob said he hoped the visual would provide a positive note for him to go out on, rather than a depressing one. His entry was accompanied by the theme song from the '60s TV show "Green Acres," and his exit by "Gone Country," a song by Alan Jackson. He was joined on the sanctuary's platform by members of the church board, who applauded and cheered him as he announced his decision.

Bob, and his wife Kelly, will still be an active part of the Austin Grace family until their home sells, but in a reduced workload following his projected retirement date after March 31. Please join them in prayer as they take the next step in faith -- especially for their house to sell -- and for the Austin Grace family as they seek the Lord's will on where to go next.