The Christian Church of Mid-America has contracted with gerontology consultant Jan Aerie for a series of seminars focusing on older adult ministries. This is made possible through the Rickman Legacy Fund which supports, in addition to Outdoor Ministries, Leader Development.
In this series, seminar topic suggestions will be determined by the needs of the host congregation but will focus on equipping the church to better meet the pastoral, emotional, health, fellowship and recreational needs of older adults in their communities of faith. Possible directions may include:
Biblical Perspectives on Aging:
Growing into the fullness of age Stages of growing maturity
Growing in the fullness of God Attitudes about growing old
Sharing wisdom and exuberance Mental well-being and satisfaction
Expanding Older Adult Ministries:
Enabling caring congregations Building authentic community
Blending the generations Serving - harvesting the potential
Letting go of the one-size-fits-all ministry Spiritual growth in old age
The first session of the series was held last month in Sedalia.
Read Consultant Jan Aerie's reflections here.
Read host pastor Chad McMullin's reflections here.
Upcoming Older Adult Ministry events will be held in Dexter on April 23, in Lake of the Ozarks on May 20, and in Gower on a yet to be determined date. Contact Regional Minister Paul Koch for more information or to schedule an event in your congregation.