Whenever Marv Repinski talks about retirement, he puts it in quotes.

“In so-called ‘retirement,’” he says, “and I put that in quotes … there are marvelous opportunities to serve.”

That’s because Repinski’s version of retirement is probably not how most other pastors envision their years beyond the pulpit.

At 72, and six years after officially retiring from the Methodist ministry, he continues to run a full schedule with several jobs and many volunteer commitments.

Repinski is currently serving as an interim pastor at Lansing United Methodist Church, a position he has committed to for one year.

“I carry on as a pastor, even if it’s part time,” he says. “I appreciate doing that.”

He also teaches a world religions course three days a week as an adjunct professor at Riverland Community College in Owatonna.

He is on the Austin Symphony Board and has volunteered with the Mower County Historical Society and Austin’s Arts in the Park festival two weekends ago. Two years ago he ran for city council. And the list goes on…

Repinski is not alone in seeking an active retirement, as trends of postponed retirements and second careers in the United States indicate. But he is unique in his gregarious enthusiasm for community.

Bishop Sally Dyck of the United Methodist Church assigned Repinski to his position at Lansing United Methodist Church, and has known him during her five years in Minnesota.

“He’s such an outgoing person,” she said. “He knows everybody, I think.”

Bishop Dyck is also quick to compliment his “excellent service” to the church community.

“We’re grateful for his ministry in a variety of places,” she said.

Repinski moved to Austin from Buffalo, Minn. in June 2002 and lives with his wife, Becky, and dog, Moses. Since moving, he has filled in at five different churches, one as far as Sleepy Eye, Minn.

He is a graduate of Augsburg College, the University of Minnesota and Luther Theological Seminary.

But rather than relate his past, Repinski likes to discuss different ways retired clergy — or any retirees — can contribute to the community.

“I have some deep feelings of encouragement for some persons, who are now thinking of retiring or are currently retired to, for a while, banish the word ‘retirement’ from their vocabulary and think of themselves as still healthy, active, gifted persons who have a lot to offer,” Repinski said.

Among those services he encourages older people, especially retired clergy, to take part in, are opportunities to lead book clubs, study groups, seminars and be involved with the Welcome Center, nursing homes, the board of education, even athletic and political organizations.

“A lot of people are doing these things, but there are more opportunities out there. Sometimes retired people need to approach the topic and intentionally make themselves available — plug in somewhere” he said.

Dyck also emphasizes ways retired pastors and priests can continuing serving.

“I meet with retired clergy every year,” she said, “and I tell them to be involved in what they loved doing in the ministry most and find a way to reinvent themselves in ministry beyond official retirement, and do what gives them the most energy, enjoyment and fulfillment.”

Becky certainly feels that these qualities belong to her husband, who, she said, “is extremely dedicated to his lifelong calling.”

But whatever way Repinski finds himself contributing to those around him, he surely will enrich his own experiences.

He defines his personal motto this way: “People have graced me in a rich manner, and it’s almost second nature for me to give a return on what has been given to me.”