Growing old is no longer synonymous with death. For many older adults, old age is not a time of disability or disease; instead it is a time of generally good health. As people live longer and retire earlier, the post-retirement period can last 25-35 years or more. We are witnessing a historically unprecedented expansion of free time in the last stage of life.
Unfortunately, some churches express a “myth-conception” that if they engage in focused ministry by, with, and or for older adults, they will soon have no congregation left. They do not realize that a church filled with older adults does not necessarily
mean that it is dead or dying. Rather, churches may need to rethink their assumptions about older adults and discipleship.
Older adults want to continue contributing to future generations and to feel valued because of their contributions. Congregations with a strong focus on older adult ministries realize that the wealth of experience, wisdom, and faith that often abound in older persons should not be lost or underutilized. But, exactly what do congregations need in order to be in effective ministry with and for older adults?
We are asking for volunteers to form a short term task force to address these issues and develop a strategy and roll out plan for helping our local congregations in their ministry with and for older adults.
The first gathering will be Wednesday, April 26 from 10:30 – 2:30 at the Methodist Building in Garner. A light lunch will be provided with reserved attendance. Future session schedules will be set that day.
Please contact Dr. Christine Harman to enlist in the group or to respond to any questions you may have.