Very often I am with leaders who talk about “InterGenerational” ministry as if it is already happening in a powerful way in their church or organization.
Many times, a closer look reveals that InterGenerational ministry is being given “lip service.” The term is being woven into messages and documents as if that is all that is required. The problem is that many churches appear to believe that InterGenerational ministry can be accomplished by a slogan or including the word in a mission or vision statement.
When InterGenerational is left to a slogan or vision statement and there is no clear strategy to accomplish goals or implement actions, it does not take very long for most of the people to see “the Emperor has no clothes.”
The Holiday Season is a very important time for churches and families. It is a season where the church has an incredible opportunity to bring families closer together and not farther apart.
It is not too late for this year!!
I want to suggest that as churches and families, we look carefully at the activities of the season. I think that we can divide activities into three basic groups.
1. Family activities where we all do something together. We must be sure that we
intentionally plan these types of activities- - games, caroling, events.
2. Activities where one part of the family watches another part of the family do
something. This can be a part of the evening. Things such as children’s Christmas programs can be followed by some family time.
3. Activities where one part of the family does things separate from the rest of the
family. Small Group parties that do not include our children are a good example. Also, time for mom and dad to have a dinner alone is very important.
Like a good diet, our spiritual life must have balance. I like pizza, but not for every meal. I want to do things with my children and my grandchildren. I also want some time with friends and with only my wife.
Churches should take a close look at the diet they are presenting to the church family. There should be balance there as well.
One of the things that my home church does regularly is the shaping of Communion to be a family time. Often we are given the elements and told to hold them and gather with our family. That simply act draws our family closer together.
If we do not look at our activities at this time, InterGenerational can become just a slogan.
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