How many of you have ever heard the term ageism? It is the same kind of word used in discrimination towards other groups. It is discriminating against someone because of their age. The question is, do we see ageism in our church?
Ageism can be written and deliberate or it can be unwritten and implied. The net result is that older saints feel ignored or left out and the are told that their contribution is either not wanted or not needed. I am not saying that a crime has been committed. I am saying that in our church and in our Fellowship we are close to a time where serious consideration to this subject must be addressed.
What does ageism in a church look like? Here are some ideas from another denomination that is dealing with this same issue.
1. When ministry to older adults is planned or funded or staffed without the input or involvement of older adults that is ageism.
2. When older adults are ignored in sermons and in worship and in pastoral care that is ageism.
3. When the primary focus of a church is youth and young families and older adults are not ministered to that could be ageism.
4. When older adults are asked to step down or step aside to make room for growth and are told that they are the reason for a lack of growth that is ageism.
5. When facilities make no accommodation for older adults that is ageism.
Some of us were encouraged by some of the sermons preached in Prescott last week. Some of us were offended and spoke disparaging words about the sermons ministering to our ageing Fellowship.
People know where they are wanted and where they are valued and where they feel safe. We have not been a Fellowship of young hippies for a long time.
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