The Power of Intergenerational Programs in Our Church
by Ashley Camp, Director of Christian Education, Westminster by the Sea Presbyterian, Daytona Beach Shores
At our church, we believe in the transformative power of intergenerational programs. These programs not only bring together people of all ages but also foster a sense of unity, understanding, and shared faith. Over the past year, we've been organizing three to four intergenerational events annually, using the PC(USA)'s Follow Me curriculum, which includes a built-in intergenerational component. All our classes, from Nursery through High School, work on the same unit each month, creating consistency and encouraging continued family conversations outside of church.
When we first started these events, finding suitable times and dates was a challenge. However, an unexpected breakthrough occurred when we planned an event during a Choir Fellowship Hour on a Sunday following the second worship service. This turned out to be a perfect opportunity, as our Presbyterian community loves gathering where there's food involved! This timing and location contributed to the success of the event, which saw a packed hall with attendees of all ages.
The theme for the event was worship. We covered the tables with craft paper, allowing participants to draw or write about important moments in worship. This provided an alternative for those who preferred not to speak in front of others. The event featured personal testimonies, a call-and-response script with instruments, and concluded with a video of everyone singing a hymn. The sight of people of all ages engaging, sharing, and even raising their hands in praise was truly inspiring.
This event was a testament to the power of intergenerational ministry. It created an environment where ideas and feelings flowed freely, and participants from various demographics connected meaningfully. It was a blessing to see how intentional dialogue and a variety of activities could bring our community closer together.
If you haven't participated in an intergenerational event or it's been a while since you last did, I encourage you to join one. These events are not only engaging but also value open conversation and diverse opinions. They connect people, foster a love of learning, and ultimately glorify Christ. Let's continue to build bridges across generations and grow together in faith.
As a follow up to last month's article on Park Lake Presbyterian having received a $1000 Wonder of Worship (WOW) from Columbia Theological Seminary, it has just been announced that Westminster by the Sea has also received a grant in the latest round of awards. The WOW grants are designed to assist churches in intentionally planning and implementing worship ideas that engage children in worship.
When we first started these events, finding suitable times and dates was a challenge. However, an unexpected breakthrough occurred when we planned an event during a Choir Fellowship Hour on a Sunday following the second worship service. This turned out to be a perfect opportunity, as our Presbyterian community loves gathering where there's food involved! This timing and location contributed to the success of the event, which saw a packed hall with attendees of all ages.
The theme for the event was worship. We covered the tables with craft paper, allowing participants to draw or write about important moments in worship. This provided an alternative for those who preferred not to speak in front of others. The event featured personal testimonies, a call-and-response script with instruments, and concluded with a video of everyone singing a hymn. The sight of people of all ages engaging, sharing, and even raising their hands in praise was truly inspiring.
This event was a testament to the power of intergenerational ministry. It created an environment where ideas and feelings flowed freely, and participants from various demographics connected meaningfully. It was a blessing to see how intentional dialogue and a variety of activities could bring our community closer together.
If you haven't participated in an intergenerational event or it's been a while since you last did, I encourage you to join one. These events are not only engaging but also value open conversation and diverse opinions. They connect people, foster a love of learning, and ultimately glorify Christ. Let's continue to build bridges across generations and grow together in faith.
As a follow up to last month's article on Park Lake Presbyterian having received a $1000 Wonder of Worship (WOW) from Columbia Theological Seminary, it has just been announced that Westminster by the Sea has also received a grant in the latest round of awards. The WOW grants are designed to assist churches in intentionally planning and implementing worship ideas that engage children in worship.