"For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you." (John 13:15, NRSV)

With the dawn of the new millennium, one person in eight is now over 65, and 62 percent of United Methodist membership is over 50. The baby boomers, who have been a driving force in our society since they burst on the scene after World War II, are now reaching the half-century mark and, by 2010, will be turning 65. In addition, the fastest growing age group in our society is now age 85 and over. Medical advances allow us to live longer, more active lives. The long-anticipated "graying of America" is now a reality, and the church is being challenged to address the needs, interests, and abilities of this portion of our congregations and communities.

Older adults are generally thought to be the recipients of congregational care and, considering the sheer number of the very elderly alive today, they present a major need for caring ministry. Older adults now include, however, a large group of "young" seniors who are in reality often an energetic, committed segment of our congregations. They are well educated and strong in leadership skills, full of wisdom gained from both the joys and heartaches of life, reared with a strong biblical component in their daily lives, steeped in United Methodist tradition, and imbued with a deep desire and intrinsic need to serve. In light of increasing numbers of early retirees living longer, healthier lives, older adults offer time, experience, and altruistic motivation that can be the cornerstone for caring ministries in the church.

Life is often described as a journey. The outward journey brings us into contact with our world and provides countless opportunities for ministry. But we risk missing some of those opportunities if we have not made a deliberate journey inward to strengthen our relationship with God. Jesus began his ministry by calling people to this same relationship and teaching them to care for each other by his own example of servant leadership, banding his followers together in mutual love and support.

A Model for Ministry