It’s true that many congregations have more senior adults than the population around them might predict. Indeed, a quarter of all congregations are more than half retirement age or older. Both members and leaders in such congregations may look at their aging membership and think they are doomed.
But are they? While there are serious questions to ask about the future, it is also critical to ask about the present. What resources and strengths does such a congregation have – both for its own internal nurture and for what it can give to its community and the world?
Anna Hall’s new book Wisdom Church challenges people to shift their perspective:
- Start by finding your tradition’s teachings about the value of every person, even older ones.
- Look around for the community engagement your older members already have time and energy for, and ask them what they are eager to tackle next.
- Appreciate the resilience, wisdom, and coping skills these people have gained.
- Be sure lines of communication and caring are there for the inevitable difficulties and losses.
- And yes, provide opportunities and guidance for estate planning!
These are but a few of the ways Hall’s book invites you to rethink those preconceptions about elders in the pews.
“What resources and strengths do aging congregations have?”
As you rethink, this may be a good time for some interviews or a focus group, inviting some of that elder wisdom to inform how you plan and program. You may discover that the congregation you’re observing has more resources than deficits. Not every congregation has to be full of “young families with children” to be vital.
