Today’s so-called ‘Second-Half’ Christian arrived when much of the Church was looking the other way. Boomers alone represent as much as 25% of urban and suburban centers in Canada and America, and between 25–40% of many congregations. Together with their parents, they are the ‘new elders’ of Christendom, the first generation intent on living another 30 or 40 years after reaching age 50.
Admittedly, younger Second-Halfers sometimes view older adults (70+) with mixed feelings and even a bit of avoidance; after all, they are the ‘parents.’ They also signal both burden and blessing to boomers who find themselves sandwiched between aging parents and children in college. The result is that those in this age group, as well as pastors and second-half ministry leaders, find themselves grappling with the excitement and the responsibility this season in life brings.
When it comes to the Church, these ‘new elders’ range from devoted to impatient to resigned and everywhere in between. They represent a key to ministry success in the body of Christ, but like the key to the front door, are sometimes hard to keep track of and frequently turn up missing. Whether boomer or builder, they’ve experienced much of what the world is like out there. They have much to give to those following after them. They want to teach and to be taught. They long to be Jesus’ hands and feet in today’s world. Maybe not the same way their parents did, but every bit as impactful.
And like veterans come home from battle, many are in need of thoughtful and loving attention, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But we are not always sure that the Church really gets it. We are sure of one thing. If ministry to and through adults in life’s second half is pushed to one side or overlooked altogether by the Church’s leaders, it will have catastrophic implications.
That’s why successfully engaging older adults in a purposeful and meaningful part of the ministry program and outreach of your church is important. Dr. Timothy Starr, a respected veteran leader in older adult ministry, reminds us that, “older people are ready to embrace a life of faith if they can see the reality of Jesus Christ in the lives of those around them.”
Who are the ‘new elders’ in your church? They are us! So how will your church plan for effective Second-Half ministry? How will you reach this major part of your community and your world for Christ? Let me suggest three immediate opportunities that are sure to deepen and broaden your possibilities.
- Become a CASA member church and join this growing family of leaders – pastors, educators, volunteers, and experts in the field of effective Second-Half ministry.
- Plan to attend CASA Leadership Conference 2008, November 12-14, in Costa Mesa, California (registration fee discounted for CASA members).
- Let all of us at CASA, our professional team and volunteers from around the nation, become part of your exciting Second-Half ministry in the months and years ahead.
Together, we’ll keep on stirring the glowing embers of our peers…and leave a light on for the next generation!
-Ward Tanneberg
