Growing up, some of my most memorable interactions in church were with people from different generations. I looked forward to seeing and talking with older adults on Sundays. I often left these conversations wanting an opportunity to meet someone who wasn’t in the rushed few minutes before or after Sunday service.
The older I get, the more I realize my village consists of people from all age groups. Of course, the more common “villagers” are my parents, siblings, and college friends.
But at 23, I have “villagers” of all ages. I am loved and supported by many, ranging in age from four to 90!
Generational ministries are common, but programs that include all generations are not always available. We know different generations can come together on more than Sundays, but we often don’t know how. To do so, we must be intentional.
A great starting place is to send a survey to the congregation to measure the likelihood of individuals willing to participate. Questions can be about age, hobbies, faith journeys, their interest in participating, and what other generations they are interested in getting to know. It can also be helpful to allow them to add what activities they would like to see.
After reviewing each survey and consolidating the results, brainstorm ways to create spaces that promote unity. Look for similarities in responses and identify what is needed to begin planning.
For example, pairing the children’s ministry with the older adults may bring both groups much joy. A place to start would be to create a weekly reading group where each group spends time reading and enjoying each other’s company.
Connecting young adults and middle-aged groups for a designated time to talk and participate in activities such as games and storytelling could provide a space for mentorship and discipleship.
For some congregations, it may be more practical to begin simply. Allow willing congregants to share their testimonies on Sundays.
People of all ages have had experiences that are not age-specific. By sharing testimonies, congregants may relate personally to the testimony and then initiate their own conversations. This is a more natural way to promote unity.
Another starting place could be to nurture prayer partnerships. These would include two congregants praying for a specific request or all the church requests together. This can also be done in a small group.
It is common to attend Sunday worship services and have no idea who the people next to us are. By bringing generations together, congregations can be stronger and more unified, improving each member’s quality of life. It can also positively impact their mental health, physical well-being and mood.
Today’s congregations have so much potential and we must begin by looking inside them for their assets. It is important to know our neighbors so we can love them and these activities can teach us how to do that. Not only can friendships form, but the church can be shown the passion and strengths of its congregants.
By getting individuals engaged, the church can flourish. Connection is powerful, and these partnerships will allow individuals to see each other’s God-given talents.
Kennedy Garland is a current MSW student at the Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University. She serves as an intern at The Center for Church and Community Impact (C31).
