| "We need to embrace that new Jell-O salad, that new science, new ideas of orientation, and new ways of doing things," she said. "Maintain what works well, and then add to it."
Andrews encouraged older adults to embrace their roles as servant leaders, pointing out that retirees often have time and resources to contribute to ministries of service.
"As I get older, I am less certain that I am right all the time, and less sure that everyone else is wrong all the time," Andrews admitted. "The most important thing is our relationships with others." She challenged her listeners to create reconciling climates that show that God's people can't live without each other.
Finally, she asked older adults to share their wisdom as they walk the last miles of their journeys with those who are just stepping onto the path.
"Become a mentor to younger members, and share the joys of Presbyterianism, stewardship, and how to balance work and play," she said. "Teach us all how to grow older gracefully and joyfully as we transition into God's eternal kingdom."
Noticeable among the more mature breakfast participants was 18-year-old Presbyterian Youth Connection Co-Moderator Nathan Ballentine, of Tallahassee, a freshman at Warren Wilson College.
Ballentine said he read about the Older Adult Ministries breakfast and wanted to see what it was about. Referring to Andrews' talk, he commented: "Our (denomination's) youngest are yearning to learn, and our oldest are yearning to teach. It seems like a natural union. I think if the oldest generation can unite with the youngest, then there's great hope that the rest of the church can come together." |
