At a time when most people are considering retirement, Peet Bloem (66) made the bold decision to pursue his lifelong calling of becoming a minister. After a distinguished 36-year career at Sasol, Bloem took the leap and enrolled at the University of Pretoria (UP) to study theology full-time.

Now, after graduating with a MDiv (Master of Divinity) degree during UP’s 2024 Spring Graduation ceremonies in the first week of September, his journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the belief that it’s never too late to follow one’s passion.

For Bloem, the call to ministry was always present. “I had the calling to become a minister all my life,” he says. “Yet, life had other plans. Straight out of school I joined the South African Police Service, before transitioning to a long career at Sasol in Secunda. Despite the satisfaction of providing for my wife and three daughters, the desire to serve as a minister never waned.”

However, it wasn’t until Sasol underwent a restructuring process in 2019, leading to his early retirement, that Bloem saw his opportunity. With a severance package secured, he realised he could finally afford to pursue his theological studies full-time.

Bloem’s journey at UP began in 2020, at an age (62) where he was usually the oldest student in the room. While initially a source of stress, the support and respect he received from younger students and lecturers alike helped him settle in. “The admiration I received motivated me, and I realised that I am doing the right thing,” he says.

Throughout his studies, Bloem's focus has been on practical theology, with a particular emphasis on trauma counselling. His passion for this field is deeply personal and stems from his awareness of the trauma that people often endure. His MDiv thesis explores the impact of trauma on the human body, mind and spirit, further cementing his commitment to helping others heal.

Bloem’s experience at UP has not only deepened his theological understanding but also broadened his perspective on current societal issues. Engaging in community involvement as part of his coursework, he worked with residents at an informal settlement, an experience that profoundly impacted him. “It was an eye-opener to realise the need those people have. We all have a responsibility to help the people on the streets to get food and shelter,” he says.

Balancing academics with his personal life posed challenges, especially in the first two years. However, with careful time management and unwavering support from his family and church community, Bloem successfully navigated his studies while maintaining his commitments to his loved ones.

Interacting with younger classmates was another unique aspect of Bloem’s academic journey. Far from feeling out of place, he embraced the generational differences, learning as much from them as they did from him. “What was especially interesting for me was the way Generation Z people are thinking. We do think differently about some aspects of life,” he observes, noting the mutual respect that developed between them.

Bloem’s future plans are clear: to serve as a minister specialising in pastoral and trauma counselling. He also leaves the door open to further academic pursuits, possibly even a PhD – although he’s content to let time guide that decision.

For those considering returning to education later in life, Bloem offers simple yet profound advice: “Start to plan, and pray that things will work out for you to pursue your passion or calling. You need to realise that it will be hard work, and there will be some sacrifices to make. What will make you achieve your goal is how serious you are about getting what you want. That will be the difference between failure and success.”

Bloem’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. His journey from corporate life to theology demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit and the fulfilment that comes from answering one’s true calling. As he prepares to step into his new role as a minister, Bloem’s life is poised to inspire others to listen to their own inner callings, no matter where they are on life’s journey.