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For more information, Kim Ebersole |
Older Adult Ministry Reading ProgramPreparing for Change: The Challenge of Aging"To know how to grow old is the master work of wisdom and one of the most difficult chapters in the great art of living" ~Henri-Frederic Amiel Aging is a gift from God. One of the greatest gifts the church can offer is to help people of all ages live their life-journey well; to move through the stages of life creatively, expectantly, meaningfully, and Spirit-filled—to age with wisdom and grace. The population of the United States is growing older, with the percentage of people age 60 and older projected to rise from 16% in 2000 to 25% by 2030 (US Administration on Aging). Many of our congregations are blessed with a considerable number of older adults among their membership. Middle-aged members often have care giving responsibilities for their older parents, while the youngest among us need guidance for healthy spiritual formation from those more mature in their faith. In order to minister fully to all members and to our communities, the church must prepare itself to address the issues and needs of our aging society. To help church leaders learn more about issues related to aging and ministry with older adults, the older adult ministry cabinet has developed the older adult ministry reading program. This mentored program is open to anyone interested in a self-guided learning experience about the aging process (body, mind, and spirit) and ministry by, for, and with older adults. The following information about the program can be downloaded and printed: For more information, or to sign up to participate in the program, contact Kim Ebersole at (800) 323-8039 or kebersole@brethren.org. |
