Studies show that all over the world, the older population is growing, and in many societies, seniors spend most of their days alone. As we strive to reach people in urban areas under the Mission to the Cities initiative, how can we connect with this group that spends a majority of their time in isolation?
Studies show that all over the world, the older population is growing1, and inmany societies, seniors spend most of their days alone. There are many effects of isolation: stress; depression; an increase in unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking, and neglect of physical activity; and a risk of quicker mental decline due to the lack of stimulation.
As we strive to reach people in urban areas under the Mission to the Cities initiative, how can we connect with this group that spends a majority of their time in isolation? What can one do to serve the seniors in the cities?
A church in Vancouver, Canada, started a seniors’ garden after the pastor heard about a local couple who had their own special garden. This couple was experiencing loneliness and disconnection, and so they started a “We Grow, You Pick” garden in their front yard to connect with their neighbors. This successful project was the starting point for a large garden at a local Adventist church. Projects like this can provide seniors with a place to come together and mingle with one another while working toward a common goal. (])
In South Korea, members of Seoul Central Church are caring for the elderly by running a senior citizen ministry. The church provides food to the elderly every Sabbath, and extends their help even further by providing bus fare for the trip to and from the church every other week. (])
What were Ellen White’s thoughts on the elderly? In the book, The Ministry of Healing, she writes, “There is a blessing in the association of the old and the young. The young may bring sunshine into the hearts and lives of the aged. Those whose hold on life is weakening need the benefit and contact with the hopefulness and buoyancy of youth” (p. 204).
In Pennsylvania, members of a church provide lawn and yard care to seniors who are homeowners and unable to care for their yards on their own. (])
There are many opportunities to serve seniors in the cities from providing basic home repairs to offering exercise programs and outings meant specifically for the elderly. (])
Visit the Mission to the Cities website for more ideas on how to serve your city’s most vulnerable residents. Following Christ’s method of ministry and filled with His Spirit, you can impact someone’s life today.
Please pray for the ongoing work of reaching the unreached. Thank you for supporting Mission to the Cities!
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