Specialist in Older Adult ministry will teach in Oklahoma City

"It is highly likely that, by 2030, adults age 65 and older will outnumber both children and youth" in the United States.

—Quote by Richard Gentzler, director, Center on Aging and Older Adult Ministries, UM General Board of Discipleship

In light of this tremendous demographic shift, the Oklahoma Conference Older Adult Council is working to resource churches as they plan ministries for, with, and by older adults.

"Fully Alive, Fully Mature!" will be offered April 30-May 1 at OKC-First Church, to help churches energize their Senior Adult Ministries.

Presenter will be Rev. Dr. Gentzler, who is recognized nationally as a teacher and leader in the field of aging and older adult ministries. An adjunct professor at Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C., he teaches courses on aging and related ministries.

His nine books include "Aging and Ministry in the 21st Century" and "The Graying of the Church."

Teams of three or four people from each church are encouraged to attend. Clergy can earn Continuing Education Units. Topics are:

• Myths and realities of aging;

• Spirituality and aging;

• Designing an older adult ministry, which includes a survey; and

• Intentional ministry with older adults, presenting ministry models and visioning.

The event begins Friday evening and continues through Saturday. Beverly Alexander of Perry will provide musical entertainment, and a book signing is scheduled.

For more information, contact George Shepherd, McFarlin UMC, Norman, 405-321-3484, ext. 109.