Meeting the spiritual needs of the growing population of senior citizens

Are there any gray or white heads among those who attend your church?  That would not be surprising since 17+ percent of the American population has now passed age 65.  The Baby Boomers are moving into senior citizenship in a big way and over the coming years that percentage will increase dramatically.  And yet, many of those in that age group have spiritual needs that are not being met.  More than a few are unable to get to church gatherings for lack of adequate transportation.  Some don?t come because of environmental barriers that prevent their attendance, or handicaps that make attendance less meaningful.  A smaller group than you would think are now residents of our various long-term care residences.  Too many are isolated in their homes.

Erik Eriksen, a developmental psychologist, has said that the most important task for seniors is the deepening and focusing of faith and spiritual meaning.  Our churches would never neglect the developmental needs of our children or youth.  But we need to be brutally honest with ourselves about how well we are meeting those needs for our older friends and neighbors and family.

Being in community is a fundamental tenet of our Christian faith.  Valuing the participation of all who choose to gather is basic.  Let?s challenge ourselves to make sure that our elderly are not omitted from our fellowship, but are able to share their wisdom and knowledge with those who come along behind them as followers of Christ.