| Older adult ministries celebrates Day Away BY MELISSA LAUBERUMCONNECTION staff Older is bett er, read the icing on John Wesleys 300th birthday cake at West River Retreat Center June 2. More than 120 seniors cheered the sentiment. The cake and party were a part of the Baltimore-Washington Conference Older Adult Ministries day away. The day provided opportunities for Bible study, relaxation on the camps waterfront property, networking about ministries and a chance to listen to a presentation by a John Wesley re-enactor. Several of those present stressed that senior adults make up a majority of The United Methodist Church. According to denominationwide statistics, those age 50 and older make up 54 percent of church membership; 22 percent of these members are 70 or older. Within this area, the average age of people in United Methodist congregations is 62, said Pat Diener, who with Virginia Ensor led the days events. We need to be attentive to and address that fact, Diener said. The church is in danger of not appreciating the spiritual and programmatic needs of the majority of its membership, said the Rev. Kenneth Jones. If we dont listen and respond to the needs of this majority, well be breaking the hearts of those we profess to serve. At the day away, and in almost every church, it is immediately obvious that the category older adult cuts a wide swath. There are people who are still very active in their 50s and those in their 80s and 90s who have slowed down or are shut-ins, Ensor said. However, effective ministry to all older adults does contain a few common traits. First and foremost, said Diener, is handicapped access, including assistance for those with hearing difficulties. That is essential and too often overlooked, she said. Most older adults also appreciate sharing meals together. Many find themselves eating alone and the chance to share a meal and conversation can be ministry, Diener said. Most older adults are also generally healthy and appreciate chances to explore new opportunities and interests. Thats where the day-away comes in, Diener said. Twice a year, seniors in the conference are invited to West River campground in Churchton. The highlights of the recent day away included the dedication of a garden at the camp to Mary Alice Edwards, who led the conferences older adult ministries for many years, and a presentation by the Rev. Jeffrey Jones of Ashton UMC who assumed the personality of Methodisms founder John Wesley. Jones, taking on Wesleys voice, regaled the seniors with tales of his ministry and the birth of Methodism. Having lived to the age of 87, Wesley reminded those present that faithfulness is the secret to longevity. A right spirit enhances ones physical well-being, he said The conference, under the leadership of chairwoman, the Rev. Konnie Brantner, and associate council director, the Rev. Vivian McCarthy, has developed a network to assist local churches or clusters that want to improve their ministry with older adults. | 
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