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Improving Church Leaders’ Communication with Older Adults

December 9, 2025

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.

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John Rivas

We Are Not Alone: Finding Hope and Faith This Holiday Season

As the holiday season draws near, the world seems to sparkle with joy—twinkling lights, cheerful music, and warm gatherings. Yet for many older adults, the season can feel quiet, cold, and deeply lonely. Loved ones may live far away, traditions may have faded, and the empty chair at the holiday table can speak louder than carols on the radio.

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American Society on Aging

ASA’s Statement on Health & Human Services Restructuring

The Trump Administration announced yesterday a major restructuring of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that includes massive staff cuts and the elimination of the Administration for Community Living (ACL). ACL is the only federal agency exclusively focused on supporting older people and people with disabilities.

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Nesterly

Nashville Home Sharing Program Launches

A home sharing program in Nashville provides a way for seniors to age in place and supplement their income while also providing companionship and affordable housing for young professionals. Three years ago, several organizations providing programs and services for seniors approached Metro Nashville officials about the growing housing cost burdens for seniors — the fastest growing population in Davidson County — and asked for help launching a home sharing model.

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ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY

Observed on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides an opportunity for church leaders and congregations to promote dialogue and action on the issues of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

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Ebenezer UMC Uses Grant to Help Purchase Defibrillator

Firefighter/Paramedic Scott Brotherton and Lieutenant/AEMT Daron Standifird from the Nolensville Fire Department trained Ebenezer UMC members on how to perform CPR and correctly use a defibrillator. Part of the defibrillator cost was offset by an Older Adult Community Service grant from ENCORE Ministry. 

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Aging Good … Agesim Bad

Ageism can shorten a lifespan by 7.5 years, according to a 2002 study by Becca Levy. Individuals with a more positive self-perception of aging lived an average of 7.5 years longer than those with less positive self-perceptions.

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Be the Hands and Feet of Jesus: Support Feeding Ministries
Be the Hands and Feet of Jesus: Support Feeding Ministries

The ENCORE Ministry Foundation provided a grant to First United Methodist in Columbia, Tennessee, to help fund their feeding ministry, the People’s Table. Since 2004, the People’s Table ministry serves meals to neighbors in need every Tuesday evening and Friday afternoon, providing nourishment, love, and hope to the homeless, elderly, families, and individuals struggling to make ends meet. However, the need in the community is growing. With the closure of a local battery plant and reductions in SNAP benefits, more families are facing food insecurity.


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.

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