The results of the survey indicate that most United Methodist Boomers are happy and satisfied with life. They appear to have outgrown the instability and turmoil of their youth and now experience great satisfaction with marriage, as well as pride in their children and work, and hope in their faith.
The "me" ethic of this generation has been replaced by the "we" ethic, as Boomers adopt a new "family values" ethic. Since 95% of the men and 90% of the women surveyed intend to be with their spouses for a lifetime, perhaps by this time the worst marriages have already dissolved.
Contrary to popular polls relating to aging Boomers, United Methodist Boomers are not worried about their aging and plan to grow old gracefully. Now that the majority of Boomers have reached mid-life, middle age is "in," and the youth culture is "out."
It is interesting that United Methodist Boomers carry negative baggage concerning views of their own generation. This is not unusual. It is a learned response. The media and other institutions (including the church) labeled this generation selfish, irresponsible, radical, and seekers of instant gratification. People have a tendency to live out their life fulfilling the expectations of others. As a result, only 44% of United Methodist Boomers view their generation in positive terms. Most people surveyed had little good to say about their generation; yet 95% of those surveyed indicate that they are quite satisfied with their lives.
While 4 out of 5 survey respondents expressed a positive outlook about the future, many UM Boomers expressed a growing concern about the escalating cost of health care, violence in our society, and saving enough money for retirement.
Our churches determine, to some extent, the nature of what is possible for ministry with Boomers. As a result of this survey, how do you envision ministry with this segment in your church? How can you reach out to non-church Boomers? How will you nurture Boomers in the Christian faith? How will you help them relate to God through Jesus Christ? What can your church do to equip them to live as Christians in the world today? With increasing numbers of middle and older adults, how will your church be transformed by Boomers?About the Authors
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| The two United Methodist Boomers who analyzed the surveys and wrote this report are Richard H. Gentzler, Jr., D.Min., Director of the Office of Adult Ministries at the General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church, and Carolyn S. Poole, Assistant in the Office of Adult Ministries and Customer Resource Specialist for Family and Life-Span Ministries. |
To order copies of the booklet or for more information, contact:
Richard H. Gentzler, Jr., D. Min. or Carolyn S. Poole
Office of Adult Ministries
General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church
P.O. Box 340003, Nashville, TN 37203-0003
toll-free (877) 899-2780, Ext. 7177
rgentzler@gbod.org or cpoole@gbod.org
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