I think elevation of youth is what leads so many churches to worry about "attracting young families" instead of investing in the middle-aged and older members who have already been faithful for years, or who have shown up because they are at that point in life where their children are grown and they once again have time to explore their own spirituality and ask more mature questions of their church and community. We think the church will die without children growing into their place in the church but honestly: how many people stay in the church they grow up in? What if we created space for parents and others who are (because we all will) aging into a more contemplative and deeper seeking time of life? A space to question, discuss, learn,and offer the new-found time of retirement and empty nests to a spiritual or community?
We should have fresh expressions in every nursing facility across the country.
I think elevation of youth is what leads so many churches to worry about "attracting young families" instead of investing in the middle-aged and older members who have already been faithful for years, or who have shown up because they are at that point in life where their children are grown and they once again have time to explore their own spirituality and ask more mature questions of their church and community. We think the church will die without children growing into their place in the church but honestly: how many people stay in the church they grow up in? What if we created space for parents and others who are (because we all will) aging into a more contemplative and deeper seeking time of life? A space to question, discuss, learn,and offer the new-found time of retirement and empty nests to a spiritual or community?
Shenanigans! This might be my favorite new expression I've heard of.
Thanks for writing this.