Defining “Senior” Ministry
For about as long as anyone remembers, “Senior” ministries in churches have been activities designed for our oldest members, typically consisting of monthly lunches, board game days and day trips. Anyone wishing to attend was encouraged to do so.
There is certainly a place for these activities in the church in 2014. However, societal changes are requiring that changes be made in adult ministry. These changes are somewhat complicated by the fact that a very large segment of our adult population, those currently 50-67, are Baby Boomers who may die of old age but will never consider themselves senior adults. AARP begins offending this group by sending them membership applications when they turn 50. What a shock and insult!!
Although many Baby Boomers are not yet “seniors,” as defined for years, they are a very important and large part of our society and churches that can use “group specific” ministries and activities. The fastest growing group moving to Austin is 55-65. They can be a tremendous source of leadership and resources. Most are empty nesters, and many are at the peak of their professional lives. This is true of most of the trailing edge Baby Boomers. Those who are in the leading edge are probably retired or looking seriously at retirement plans.
You will be hearing more about these ministries in the months to come, but we have identified three groups of adults attending Hillcrest who are over 50. I recently heard these groups referred to as “Go-go,” “Slow-go” and No-go.” Are you over 50? Which group are you in? We’ll be developing ministries for each group.
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