Why is Pete retiring in the late-spring, 2027?

After more than 30 years of co-founding and leading Family Fest Ministries, Pete is entering a new season and has made the decision to retire. This is a planned transition: Pete first shared with the board at its 2024 retreat that he intended to retire within the next two to four years, and as this spring marks three years, he believes now is the right time to begin the process. Pete sees Family Fest entering an exciting new chapter, one that will benefit from fresh vision, energy, and leadership building on the strong foundation already in place. He is choosing to step aside while he can fully invest in preparing the next Executive Director for success.

How did Pete come to the decision to retire?

After much prayer, reflection, and discernment, Pete has decided that the time is right to pass the baton of leadership to a new Executive Director. He first began this conversation with the board at its 2024 retreat, allowing time for thoughtful planning and a healthy transition. The board is deeply grateful for Pete’s faithful leadership, the strong foundation he has helped build, and his ongoing partnership throughout this process.

Pete will step away from the day-to-day responsibilities of the Executive Director role, but hopes to remain involved in other meaningful ways in the ministry.

When is the effective transition date?

Pete’s transition timeline is to remain in role and help onboard the new Executive Director with a targeted start date of Spring 2027. Pete will be leading our Winter Weekend retreats in 2027 just as he has since 1997.

Will the ministry continue after Pete retires?

Absolutely! Family Fest will continue and is well positioned for its next chapter. The ministry was founded to serve families on their journey growing closer to Jesus and one another; its mission has never depended on one individual. Pete, and the staff have worked to create a strong foundation, and the board, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners are committed to carrying the mission forward.

Is the ministry thriving and sustainable?

Family Fest is healthy, financially stable with a good donor base, and making a significant impact, so this transition is happening from a position of strength, not necessity. Guided by the succession plan established in 2024, the board is taking a thoughtful, deliberate approach to honor Pete and ensure the ministry’s mission, relationships, and operations continue to thrive.

What does this mean for other Family Fest staff, program leaders, and board members?

Staff and program leaders remain essential to the continuity of Family Fest Ministries. Day-to-day ministry work and current program responsibilities will continue, and no immediate changes to roles or programs are expected due to Pete’s retirement. The current board members remain committed to guiding a smooth transition, providing clear updates, listening to staff and program leaders throughout the process, and communicating any future changes.

Who will lead the ministry after Pete’s retirement?

A search committee has been established that includes staff, board, and Family Fest stakeholders. While elements of the hiring process need to remain confidential, the board will share updates during the process and will communicate to the community when a hire has been made.

Will the ministry mission or values change?

The mission and core values of Family Fest will remain and serve as the foundation for the search. As with any new season, the next executive director may bring new perspective and leadership priorities, but the board is committed to preserving what is essential to the ministry’s identity.

How can I help?

Please pray for the board and search committee, continue supporting the ministry’s work, attend camp, marriage retreats, and share any questions or concerns with Board Chair, Susan Gallagher. We are committed to communicating at meaningful milestones rather than allow uncertainty to grow in the absence of information.

How can we honor and celebrate Pete?

A celebration for Pete will be announced at a later date in 2027.

Does this mean that Mr. Ridiculous will also be retiring?

Not so fast! While Pete is preparing for retirement, we are in talks with the agent for Mr. Ridiculous about appearing at Winter Weekend. The only way to find out is to join us either January 15-18 or February 12-15. Come prepared to celebrate Family Fest’s next chapter, and stay alert: Mr. Ridiculous may still have a few surprises left to share. Hey, Hey, Hey, Poof!