Uniting AgeWell’s historical links with the Uniting Church date back 70 years, when some of the Presbyterian and Methodist congregations had the vision and foresight to build facilities to invest in the care of older people.
Many Uniting Church congregations still strongly support Uniting AgeWell communities through pastoral visits to residents, and volunteering in a number of capacities.
On Sunday, 8 October, Uniting Church congregations will take part in ‘UA Sunday’, which draws together all the festivities of Uniting AgeWell’s annual Celebration of Ageing Well.
Rev John Broughton is the director of mission for Uniting AgeWell. He believes offering chaplains at each Uniting AgeWell site honours the vision of past congregations while ensuring aged care services remain a missional outreach of the Church.
“This special service recognises the importance for older people to age well in environments where the work is infused with the Christian faith tradition,” Mr Broughton said.
“As the people of Jesus Christ, it is appropriate for Uniting Church congregations to take some time to reflect theologically, and prepare as a church community, for the life-long transition called ageing.”
Mr Broughton said the service is also an opportunity to give thanks to God for the wonderful diversity of backgrounds and life experiences of Uniting AgeWell customers and their families.
To assist worship leaders in their preparation for ‘UA Sunday’, the Uniting AgeWell Mission Committee has made available a suite of resources available at: unitingagewell.org/about-us/publications, or by contacting John Broughton at: JBroughton@unitingagewell.org
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