Hillside Oversight Area in south Birmingham has worked together to grow and develop their ministry in local care homes, and more widely with ‘4th-agers’ in their communities. Revd Sheri Gidney, Vicar of Lickey and Blackwell, said:
"Jesus once said,'I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.'
"What does living life to the fullest look like in later years? Cofton Park Manor, a nursing home which opened in January 2023, has been committed to nurturing the spiritual well-being of its residents and invited us in to lead a monthly service. With the support of staff, family members, and the church, the service quickly outgrew the cinema room and now utilises the largest lounge to accommodate everyone. A Confirmation has even taken place there!"
Within the five parishes that make up the Oversight Area there are a considerable number of residential and nursing homes, as well as an ExtraCare Retirement Village. The monthly communion services are meaningful gatherings that remind the residents of their worth and purpose in the world through the love of God. The services involve singing hymns, reading the Bible (usually aloud together), offering prayers for the world, and partaking in communion. They provide a welcoming space for residents to be recognised, accepted, and nurture their spiritual growth.
Timeless Dementia Church at St Catherine’s Blackwell is a short, monthly afternoon service followed by tea and shortbread for those living with dementia, accompanied by their loved ones or carer. Revd Sheri says,
"The service is 30 minutes, contains four hymns, The Lord’s Prayer, a Bible Reading and a very short talk. Afterwards we enjoy a cup of tea and shortbread' together in The Wheel. There is an understanding and expectation that some of our congregation will need to be free to walk, stand and sit when they need to, and we acknowledge and welcome this. We are wheelchair accessible. The service is designed to provoke muscle memory, belonging, participation, and for carers/loved ones accompanying, an opportunity to chat outside of the home and enjoy something together with their loved one. We also have a few join this congregation who find a morning service difficult."
Please pray for all those who are part of these communities, and contact Mission Support if their story inspires you and encourages you to think again about connecting in new ways with ‘4th-agers’ in your Oversight Area.