Horizons magazine is published by Presbyterian Women (PW) the national women’s organization of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Issue link: http://horizons.epubxp.com/i/52581
could imagine. This "age wave" and "silver tsunami" are moving rapidly through the nation. The church needs to make the most of the incredible capacity of the older adults and new seniors who are becoming the dominant fabric of our nation. An older adult or new seniors ministry offers individuals the opportunity to serve in ways that are unique, meaningful and life- changing. The church should be one of the best sources for volun- teers to serve in our communities. This is the first time in history when it will be common to have five or six generations occupying the same pew. Think of the broad scope of experiences represented in a century of life! Consider the values developed within each generation as a result of their sur- rounding events and circumstances. If we are to break down the barriers that divide us, we will need to put forth an effort to understand the make-up of every generation, to dis- pense grace and to determine com- mon purpose and mission. Cultivating New Senior and Older Adult Ministries If you are convinced that developing an older adult or new seniors min- istry in your church is essential, use the information in this article to get things started. First, bring together interested parties to begin the discussion. Next, enlist the support of leadership in your con- gregation, and recruit leadership from within each age group. Establish your purpose, mission and vision. Enlist the assistance of advocates. Utilize outside resources that can help you develop successful older adult ministries. Be sure to share with your congregation the nine benefits of establishing a new senior and/or older adult ministry: 1. expands the church's existing ministry by reaching entire families, including grandparents and homebound seniors; 2. shows that the church is a vital part of community life; 3. builds overall church activity; 4. increases worship attendance; 5. instills scriptural truth in the lives of seniors and helps them face the challenges of a changing and often deteriorating society; 6. provides enriching experiences close to home; 7. helps meet the need for senior care; 8. provides an opportunity for older adults and multi-generations to serve side by side; 9. provides an opportunity for youth, young adults and families to serve. Further, an effective new senior and/or older adult ministry will • use the talents of older adults in ways that strengthen and revitalize Presbyterian Older Adult Ministry Network (POAMN) For additional information about developing an older adult ministry, enlist the resources and expertise of the Presbyterian Older Adult Ministries Network (POAMN). POAMN is a network of individuals, congregations, governing bodies and retirement communities committed to the spiritual, emotional, physical and social well-being of older persons and those who care for them. POAMN advocates and supports the Christian view that the lives of older persons are to be affirmed and accepted, their needs respected, and their contributions sought and used to the fullest. Visit www.poamn.org or contact Michele Shultz Hendrix at terryhendrix@earthlink.net. 8 both church and community; • include those left out of the mainstream because of age discrimination, combined with discrimination based on race and/or gender; • help people become skilled advocates on their own behalf; • provide opportunities for different generations to learn together 7and from each other; • cooperate with community efforts to meet older peopleᑀs physical, social, spiritual and economic needs; • support and encourage development of in-home Christian care services, and seek out a wider range of housing options that reduce the need for institutional care; and • minister to those in community nursing homes and those restricted to their homes to encourage a more holistic approach to their needs. The Joy of Belonging to the Body of Christ Steps toward developing a new congregational ministry are similar to steps toward solving any problem: identify the problem, gather the facts, identify possible solutions, choose the most promising course of action, implement and monitor that course of action and evaluate the results. Throughout this process,