Psalm 92:12–15
12 The righteous flourish like the palm tree
and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
13 They are planted in the house of the Lord;
they flourish in the courts of our God.
14 In old age they still produce fruit;
they are always green and full of sap,
15 showing that the Lord is upright;
he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.
A Strong Start to a Vital Ministry
The Roadmap to Aging ministry began with its first workshop on November 10, 2024, when Dr. Christine Jensen led a comprehensive session on how to plan for this important phase of life. With 80 people in attendance, the response was overwhelmingly positive and encouraging.
Learning from the Wider Community
On May 19–20, nine church members and I attended the Virginia Governor’s Conference on Aging at the Williamsburg Lodge. This event offered valuable insights into how churches can better support older adults. Breakout sessions covered topics such as dementia, senior living options, intergenerational programming, community planning for an aging population, and confronting ageism. The conference affirmed that the church has a meaningful opportunity to serve and uplift people in this phase of life through education, care, and renewed purpose.
Local Demographics and Growing Opportunities
In James City County, 28.3% of the population is currently 65 or older—significantly higher than the national average of 17.4%. By 2040, that number is projected to rise to 34.5%. These figures highlight a tremendous opportunity for Williamsburg Presbyterian Church to become an even more welcoming and supportive spiritual home for older adults. This age group carries wisdom formed through years of personal, professional, and spiritual growth—wisdom that can greatly bless our congregation and broader community.
Aging Well: Body, Mind, Spirit
Research shows that we age best when we stay mentally, physically, and socially active. I would also add: spiritually active. Yet in our culture, older adults are often overlooked or undervalued. In the TV show Matlock, Kathy Bates plays a 70-year-old lawyer, Madelaine Matlock, seeking justice for her daughter during the opioid epidemic. Madelaine Matlock often says, “There is a funny thing that happens when women age. We become damn near invisible.” Sadly, this sentiment resonates with too many people, not just women.
The Church's Role: Embracing Wisdom, Refuting Ageism
By 2054, nearly a quarter of the U.S. population will be 65 or older. The church must step up now to affirm the value, dignity, and spiritual gifts of older adults. This is a time not to retreat, but to grow—spiritually and communally. As Psalm 92 says, “In old age they still produce fruit; they are always green and full of sap.” What a beautiful reminder that faith in our later years can deepen, not diminish. Many of us find more time and clarity to serve God once we are past the busy years of school, careers, and caregiving.
Looking Ahead: Fall and Spring Programming
Our Roadmap to Aging team is currently planning programs for this coming fall and next spring. These will focus on how to age well, navigate the physical realities of aging, and embrace God’s purpose for this season of life. We aim to offer education, intentional care, and spiritual encouragement so that each of us may “produce fruit”—because, as the Psalm says, we are “green and full of sap.” Stay tuned for more details, and thank you for supporting this important ministry!
– Pastor Pam Hrncir
