A companion to Designing an Older Adult Ministry, this book provides new information and outlines ways to develop and strengthen ministries by, with, and for older adults that can, and will, enhance the spiritual growth and well-being of people of all ages.
The church is in the hands of its elders. While the popular perception is that the aged are needy and infirm, Rick Gentzler affirms that the majority of older adults have plenty to give. The church needs to tap into their wisdom, energy, experience, and talents.
Author Rick Gentzler gives readers ways to develop and strengthen ministries with older adults
With the COVID-19 pandemic, church leaders have experienced great change in how we do effective ministry. In some cases, the loss of face-to-face gatherings with social distancing, changes in the way we greet people (without hugs and handshakes), celebrate Holy Communion or holy baptism, or even in passing of the peace during worship services can be troublesome. Problem solving in …
Madison Street United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, received a $7,500 grant from the Golden Cross Foundation. Money from this grant was used to start an iPad pilot project for older adults. “Older adults have become isolated because many church communications – newsletters, schedules, and other church information – are now distributed electronically,” said Aleeta Christian, chair of the church’s …
by Charles Hewgley Since 2013, I’ve been blessed to serve on the Golden Cross Foundation’s board of directors. During that time, we’ve provided grants and training to help United Methodist churches and organizations in the Tennessee Conference meet the needs of our conference’s fastest-growing demographic group – midlife and mature adults. With almost 50 grants awarded for a total of …
Ministry with senior adults isn’t just a Sunday-morning calling for two Nashville-area United Methodist churches. Weekday clubs for senior adult member and community residents are key ministries for Hillcrest and Gordon Memorial. Gordon Memorial’s Best Years Club provides programming, meals, transportation, and everyday necessities while Hillcrest’s Sunny Day Club provides respite for caregivers and a regular outing for club members …
During the Golden Cross Foundation Dinner at the Tennessee Annual Conference session on June 13, five (5) churches and one (1) individual were presented with the ENCORE Ministry Award for 2019. The awards were presented by the ENCORE Ministry Committee for exemplary ministry by, with, and for older adults in the Tennessee Conference. One church from each of the five …
Travisville UMC music directors Phyllis Roysden, Lyllis Byrd, and Danny Byrd prepare to lead Gospel singings this year. Made possible by a grant from the Golden Cross Foundation, the singings and other older adult ministries such as Bible studies, outreach, and holiday meals will benefit both congregation and community members in Pall Mall, Tennessee. Travisville United Methodist Church in Pall …
Thanks in part to a grant from the Golden Cross Foundation, construction is underway on the new Christian Life Center at Dickson (Tennessee) First United Methodist Church. When complete, the center’s elevator will provide persons with limited mobility easier access to the sanctuary in the original building. Dickson (Tennessee) First United Methodist Church received a $10,000 grant from the Golden …