An integrated Church? Younger and Older-in this together? Are ‘elders’ gifts and experience valued and integrated?

NORMAN’S VISION Gifts and experience of older married to the gifts and energy of younger-integrated into the life and mission of wider Church. ‘Elders’ seen as God’s missionary force and part of the future existence of the Church.

IN THIS TOGETHER? For as long as I can remember, the focus has been on the younger Many posts for youth workers, ministers and chaplains Only two created for a ‘seniors minister’ in the past 3 years.

ARE OLDER CHRISTIANS VALUED?-(1) What are they expected to do? Pray, be tolerant, accept changes, keep up with the young, make tea, not rock the boat, do flowers, help with the crèche, ‘sit up shut up and pay up’, dust, hand out books, polish the brass, do maintenance, help in the church office—not with computers, but in sticking stamps on envelopes.

ARE OLDER CHRISTIANS VALUED-(2) What older Christians would like to do. Use talents, be recognized as part of the church family, be involved in decision- making, share more activities in the general church, be part of the visiting programme, counsel, teach, evangelize, share wisdom, have links with younger people, have a voice in things, lead worship sometimes, be a prayer partner with a younger person.

SO WHAT’S THE REALITY? What is your experience? Is the Church valuing ‘elders’ gifts and experience? What more could be done?