During an instance of momentary forgetfulness or confusion you may have heard (or said yourself), “Oh, I’m just having a senior moment.” At St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Orange, CA however, Senior Moments is anything but a forgetful experience!
Senior Moments is the name for the congregation's senior ministry group, going strong since 2010. The Seniors of St. Paul’s get together monthly to have a meal, socialize, play games, and learn from a scheduled speaker. Guest speakers have been authors, pastors, policemen, firemen, representatives from the Alzheimer’s Association, Ronald McDonald House and others.
The seniors of St. Paul’s have become more than a social group for Coordinator Denise Bjorn. “When our former DCE asked me to help coordinate senior activities after the pandemic, I was very humbled," Denise said. "I love this group of people, they are my friends, my close friends. And they've welcomed me into their group with such kindness and generosity, it is an honor to be allowed to hang out with them every month.”
An important missional aspect of the group is inviting friends who are not members of the church, reaching out with the opportunity to gather with others in fellowship and feel the love of Jesus. And in addition to their monthly meetings, Denise organizes outings to museums and restaurants, along with events such as Senior Bingo and Senior Movie Day.
Karen Helton, who helps Denise organize events, feels being a part of Senior Moments gives her the opportunity to use her God-given gifts within her church family. “It’s been such a blessing to me. Our team works so well together. I am filled with joy help to provide a place for other seniors to gather for a meal, conversation, and fun activities. Just watching them talk and laugh makes me smile.”
DCE Kessler O’Brien finds much value in Senior Moments. He shared, "I might only be in my 20's, but as the DCE at St. Paul’s, I am in Senior Moments every month! It is so refreshing for me in my own ministry to see the gathering and faith-building that is going on with the Seniors in our Church Community! What better time to learn, grow, and cultivate relationships than with the Seniors of our Church body! And yes, I also enjoy the home cooked meals that come along with it!”
Senior Moments is a shining example of God working in and through people no matter their age. Seniors have years of knowledge, talents, and gifts to share - we thank God that at St. Paul’s they are making an impact on their family of faith and their community.
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