Bringing New Hope to the Elderly

September 24, 2014

Thumb 750 photo 1411583161

By Kitty Foth-Regner



Seems like there have always been plenty of ministries targeting children, teens, and those in the early years of adulthood. But until fairly recently, not as much attention has been paid to the spiritual needs of the elderly.



Perhaps that’s because of the myth that says that says if you aren’t saved by age 20, you probably won’t ever be – and the logical conclusion that younger folk offer a better return on the evangelism investment.



Whatever the reason, the times they are a-changing now that we baby boomers are approaching old age. And ministries are emerging nationwide to help address the spiritual requirements of the aged, particularly those living in long-term-care facilities.



One example is the New Hope Nursing Home Ministry at Brookside Baptist Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Just launched this month, it’s initially focusing on two nearby nursing homes – Care-age of Brookfield and Linden Grove in Menomonee Falls.



Here, volunteers from Brookside will have the opportunity to share the love of Christ in a variety of ways, from visiting with residents one-on-one to helping out with various activities and outings, from conducting hymn sings to taking part in Bible studies.



To prepare these volunteers for the challenge, New Hope coordinator Jean Kelly is conducting a series of classes on subjects such as privacy rights, religious freedom, facility guidelines, communicating with the elderly and sharing the Gospel.



If you’re a Brooksider and want to know more about New Hope, drop me a note!

And wherever you may live, if you have a little time on your hands, and a lot of love in your heart for the elderly, I do hope you’ll consider becoming a nursing-home volunteer.



Photos used under Creative Commons from Anas Qtiesh, David Boyle, Very Quiet

September 24, 2014 by Kitty Foth-Regner

Category:
  • Visiting & Serving Seniors