As the United States mourns former President Jimmy Carter, who died last month at the age of 100, church leaders are being challenged about the ministry they provide to seniors in their congregation and beyond, the Christian Today website reports today (Jan. 12, 2025).
Carter, who died in December, was still teaching Sunday School at his church in Plains, Georgia, into his nineties. He was a high--profile example of how older Christians can live fulfilled lives, serving God and helping others find faith.
Carter's ministry and mission stand in contrast to many churches where their outreach and activities are focused on younger people and families.
Now, Christian charity "Faith in Later Life" has produced a challenging 10--point qiestiommaire for church leaders asking "Is your church faith in later life friendly?" It is designed for use by church committees, diaconates, and other leadershp groups across denominations. Although produced in the UK, it is relevant for churches across the world.
Key questions include: How often does your church offer activities, programs, or services specifically aimed at older people? Does your church proactively provide love and pastoral care tailored to the unique needs of older people in your community? Does your church actively help older people in your community find and explore faith through evangelism?
Alexandra Drew, chief executive officer of Faith in Later Life, describes herself as "passionate and experienced in inspiring and equipping people for opportunities and challenges of later life, and in helping them know Jesus more deeply or for the first time."
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