Steps for the Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate
Steps outlining how individuals and congregations can become certified as an Age-Friendly Congregation.
February 6, 2026
Steps outlining how individuals and congregations can become certified as an Age-Friendly Congregation.
Periodically, every church should review and evaluate its ministries with older adults. What’s working well and what’s not? Keep in mind it’s not always the number of people participating. Rather, it’s the difference the ministry is making in the lives of older adults who participate.
Each May, The United Methodist Church celebrates Older Adult Recognition Day to recognize older adults for their contributions to the church and community. This year’s theme, suggested by the Administration on Community Living (ACL), is Flip the Script on Aging.
Good communication is an important part of the relationship process among the pastor, church staff, and congregation. However, having successful relationships with older adults often requires unique communication skills and strategies. Effective pastor-older adult communication has great benefits: Older adults are more likely to participate in church activities, express greater satisfaction with their church and church leadership, and have a greater sense of well-being.
Printable and postable brochure highlights ENCORE Ministry’s Foundations resources, networking, grant funding, and training.
The authors of Intergenerational Christian Formation offer these simple possibilities for bringing different generations together.
When we think about creating and leaving a legacy it’s not just a matter of preparing our assets for our family, it’s preparing our family for our assets.
If we aspire to grow to be a wise elder, we will recognize that the wisdom of age does not simply happen by living many years and having many experiences. It involves acknowledging and accepting that life requires resilience, flexibility, patience, and sharing this knowledge with others.
Watch older adult ministry training event held on October 26, 2023. Downloadable resource also available.
Helpful self-care tip sheet for grandfamily caregivers
Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, feeding the hungry, caring for the vulnerable, and showing love to those who need it most. Every dollar you give to the Kent and Ellen McNish Fund for Older Adult Food Security helps feeding ministries stretch resources and serve more meals to those in need. Donate today and help support life-changing feeding ministries like the People’s Table.