Worship resource out now for Older Persons Sunday 2024
2024 is the third year the Uniting Church will mark an annual occasion to celebrate and reflect on the human rights and contributions of older people
September 25, 2024
A flexible worship resource is now available for Uniting Church communities to mark the third UCA Older Persons Sunday this October.
Established by a resolution of the Assembly in 2022, Older Persons Sunday is an annual opportunity to celebrate the human rights and contributions of older people in our communities, challenge ageism and reflect on how we can nurture dignity and hope for all ages.
The official suggested date is the first Sunday in October, which follows the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons, however congregations can mark the occasion on another Sunday in October or other date that suits them.
The worship resource includes a full service of worship, intergenerational activities, scripture, song and prayer suggestions. It also features reflections from Uniting Church President Rev Charissa Suli and UnitingCare Australia National Director Claerwen Little.
“In many cultures, including my own Tongan heritage, elders are seen as ‘pillars of wisdom’ ... They carry stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and faith that shape our lives today.”
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“In many cultures, including my own Tongan heritage, elders are seen as ‘pillars of wisdom’ and from an early age we learn to look up to our grandparents and the elderly,” writes Rev Suli. “They carry stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and faith that shape our lives today.”
“In the Uniting Church, we believe all people should be treated with respect and dignity. That belief is central to how we care for our elders.”
Claerwen Little writes, "Older Persons Sunday offers an opportunity for local churches to join the recognition and celebration of older people, as we work together to transform ageing and aged care.”
“The day is intended as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the enormous contributions that older people have and are making as individuals, and members of families and communities. IDOP also serves to highlight the need for changes to policies and practices which neglect or discriminate against older people.”
The United Nations established the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) in 1990 to focus attention around the globe on the barriers to respect and dignity for older people caused by ageism. In 2024 the theme stresses the importance of having strong support systems to help older people age with dignity.
Congregations and communities might like to theme an entire service around Older Persons Sunday or just include some themed prayers or reflections. In some cases older people might be invited to share a first-person reflection or testimony.
Find out more about UnitingCare Australia's Uniting Friends of Ageing.
Download the resource below
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