Programs for Churches
In addition to sponsoring region-wide events, Elder Care Ministries provides workshops, retreats, consultations, training, and other programs on a variety of topics related to aging to congregations and other groups.
The programs can be developed or tailored to meet the specifics needs or interests of a congregation or group. They can be offered in a different formats and at various times. Below are a few examples of types of Elder Care Ministries programs that are available to congregations.
The programs can be developed or tailored to meet the specifics needs or interests of a congregation or group. They can be offered in a different formats and at various times. Below are a few examples of types of Elder Care Ministries programs that are available to congregations.
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Sharing Your Wishes This program helps participants identify conversations they may need to have about end-of-life plans and other important issues. Participants receive a copy of Five Wishes, which offers a complete approach to discussing and documenting care choices. (A virtual version of this program also is available for groups and individuals.) |
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The Spiritual Gifts of Aging Navigating one’s way through the third third of life can be a spiritual journey. This program invites participants to explore the spiritual gifts of aging that can open the way to deeper meaning, joy, fulfillment, self-understanding, and freedom. It also offers questions and practices that may lead to greater passion and gratitude. |
Ministry with Older People
Congregations with a strong focus on ministry with and to older people realize that the wealth of experience, wisdom, and faith that often abound in these individuals should not be lost or underutilized. This program allows participants to explore ideas for planning or expanding ministry with and to older people. 
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Finding a New Sense of Balance
Entering and traveling through the third third of life can require discovering a new sense of balance. During this program, participants have opportunities to reflect on where they might need to find better balance in their relationships with God, others, and themselves. |
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How Music Reaches Our Seniors When congregations think about ways to connect with older people, music might well belong at the top of that list. Recent studies show the mental, physical, and spiritual benefits of music for older people. During this program, participants explore how congregations might reach seniors through music |
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Dinner, Death & Dialogue This unique experience allows small groups to gather around dining tables to share a meal and informal conversation about death in a safe setting. Guests are able to share their questions, fears, hopes, and uncertainties and reflect on how talking about death might change the way they live. |
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Sharing Our Stories Congregations can serve as settings in which people in the third third of life have opportunities to share their stories. This program helps congregations serve as such a setting--whether between grandparents and grandchildren; during all-church forums or fellowship events; or as part of worship services. |
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