In the fourth season-opener, it introduces "The Colonel" (guest-star Peter Graves) and Grandma Ruth (guest-star Barbara Rush) back in the Camdens lives as they just returned from being out of the country for six months. Simon surprises his grandparents with his new haircut. Matt decides to move out of the house and gets his own apartment with his friend John Hamilton. Aunt Julie's new husband Hank (guest-star Ed Begley Jr.) gets Matt a job at his hospital working in the cafeteria. Also, a big surprise happens when Eric begins to suffer a mild heart attack due to the stress from his job. Eric spends a few days in the hospital with the support from his family. Within the coming weeks he must take things slow awhile recovering.
Reverend Eric Camden and his wife Annie have always had their hands full caring for seven children, not to mention the friends, sweethearts and spouses that continually come and go in the Camden household. This year, Eric and Annie will find their family back together in Glenoak with the return of Matt and Simon.
As is often the case when the house is overflowing with Camdens, Eric and Annie are in for a bumpy ride as their children take landmark steps in their lives. Meanwhile, Eric and Annie continue their journey as soul mates, parents and grandparents whose love and respect for each other brings them ever closer.
Through all the ups and downs, Eric and Annie have managed to keep their romance alive and their family together. Not only are they raising their own seven children, they've picked up several additional family members along the way.