Intergenerational ministry is…
A way of being the church that seeks to bring all ages of a congregation together in mutual and meaningful ways.
A generation is a group of people born around a similar time period. The “when” of our birth shapes the “how” of our lives. A person’s generation does not tell everything about them, but it can tell some things. Having a sense of generational differences makes a difference!
Understanding Generations
Bringing Generations Together
One challenge facing many churches is growing distance between different age groups. The church has an opportunity to model a more unified presence in the world by not falling into these divisive traps. Bringing the generations together is one important way a church can make an effort towards maintaining the unity given by the Spirit. The church has a unique opportunity to show a better, unified way in bringing the generations together.
Three Core Intergenerational Beliefs:
A community where every generation…
Belongs
All ages are welcomed into the community and are seen as valued members of the Body of Christ.
Blesses
All ages are recognized as gifted and their talents are encouraged to contribute to the larger Body of Christ.
Benefits
All ages are made better and formed more deeply by being open to receiving the gifts of other generations.
Intergenerational Ministry FAQS
What is intergenerational ministry?
Intergenerational ministry is a way of being the church that believes every age has something to offer to the entire congregation. These communities find regular opportunities for every age to share and receive these gifts from one another. Intergenerational moments happen when different generations come together in mutual and meaningful ways.
Why would a church consider becoming more intergenerational?
The Story of Scripture places a value on all generations being important to the community of faith (e.g., Psalm 145). In addition, there is growing evidence that churches who honor all ages of a congregation will experience unique formative benefits and opportunities for growth.
If we have a lot of ages in our church, does that make us an intergenerational church?
Not exactly. A church containing different ages would be called a “multigenerational church.” This is a community where different generations are around each other but rarely and randomly interact with each other. In contrast, an intergenerational church is a community where the different ages of a congregation share in mutual and meaningful interactions. You might imagine the difference between rows and circles. A multigenerational church might have a lot of different ages sitting next to other on a pew facing a similar direction. An intergenerational church would look for opportunities to turn those rows into circles where different ages can interact and engage each other.
If we are a multigenerational church, should we become an intergenerational church?
Your church will experience unique benefits and blessings if you strive to create intergenerational opportunities. However, age-based experiences are also important in the faith development of all generations. It is less an “either-or” choice as much as it is a “both-and” opportunity. Finding regular, intergenerational rhythms to include in your church is a great place to start.
What are some challenges to intergenerational ministry?
Bringing different kinds of people together is always a challenge. We have natural tendencies to be with people like us, including those of a similar age. Generational stereotypes and generational group-think serve as common challenges for churches who want to become more intergenerational.
Do you have any examples of intergenerational ministry?
Yes! I serve at a church that has experimented with intergenerational ministry in some the following settings: small groups, worship services, welcome team, and mission trips. When I work with churches, we spend time brainstorming ideas for your specific location because every church is different and has unique opportunities for connecting the generations.
Would you like help becoming a church for every generation?
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Check out Wilson’s chapter in the book Intergenerate: Transforming Churches through Intergenerational Ministry
InterGenerate signals an exciting and important shift in conversations around ministry for youth, children, and congregational care. Many of the authors have been on the front lines, working to shift congregational attention to an intergenerational focus. There is a lot to learn in these pages.
-Andrew Root, PhD, Professor of Youth and Family Ministry, Luther Seminary, and author of Faith Formation in a Secular Age
Check out Wilson’s chapter in All Ages Becoming: Intergenerational Practice in the Formation of God’s People
In my sojourn as an official children and family pastor in a large congregation I would have given anything to get my hands and eyes on a book such as this one that brings together the best thinkers - and doers - for intergenerational formation! Now this gift for the church is yours to read and share, discuss and try out.
-Trevecca Okholm, MA, Former Children and Family Minister (PCUSA) and Professor of Practical Theology, Azusa Pacific University