Psalm 145:4 says “One generation will commend Your works to another, they will tell of Your mighty acts…” It’s a perfect picture of the church at its best: every generation, from the youngest to the oldest, gathered together in worship, learning, and service.
The modern church often struggles to engage all ages together. We divide our congregations into age-based groups—children, youth, adults—leading to what some call “silo ministries:” a church ministry that operates independently or with limited interaction or collaboration with other ministries. While there are valid reasons for these divisions, we may be missing something essential: the richness of intergenerational ministry, where different generations not only coexist but also interact and learn from one another. This is where grandparenting comes in.
The Difference Between Multi- and Inter-Generational Ministry
Many churches are multigenerational, meaning they have members from various age groups. But multigenerational doesn’t necessarily mean intergenerational. A church can have people of all ages without those generations ever truly interacting. Picture a busy city street: people of all ages are rushing by, maybe even bumping into each other, but rarely connecting.
In contrast, intergenerational ministry is about intentional connection. It’s about creating spaces where people from different generations engage with one another, build relationships, and serve together. Healthy churches should strive to be both multigenerational and intergenerational.
Why Grandparenting is the Ultimate Intergenerational Ministry
Grandparenting might be the most natural way to create intergenerational connections in the church. Here’s why:
- Demographics
Grandparents span a wide age range, from their late 30s into their 90s. The average first-time grandparent in the U.S. is just 47 years old, meaning grandparents are often still in the workforce, active in their communities, and highly involved in church life. In fact, approximately 25% of people attending church in the U.S. are grandparents. They represent a significant portion of the church population, and they’re often some of the most faithful attendees. 25% of children going to American churches are brought by their grandparents.
According to the MetLife report on Grandparents, the numbers of U.S. grandparents are at record highs, and growing faster than the general population. In 2020, they represented nearly 1-in-3 adults. Approximately 70-80% of adults eventually become grandparents. - Influence
Grandparents play a crucial role in passing on the faith to future generations. The phrase “Generations to come” appears 37 times in the Bible. Psalm 78:4-6 says, “We will not hide [God’s works] from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord…”
Grandparents are uniquely positioned to impact not only their children and grandchildren but also great-grandchildren; in fact, Psalm 78 describes grandparents’ godly influence to the fourth generation: well beyond our lifetimes. Additionally, Psalm 78:5 indicates that this is a command from God!
Through prayer, storytelling, and modeling faith, grandparents can leave a spiritual legacy that spans multiple generations.
Reimagining Grandparenting as Ministry
Too often, the church overlooks the potential of grandparents in ministry. But what if we reimagined grandparenting as a vital part of the church’s mission? Here are a few ways to begin:
- Encourage Intergenerational Prayer
Invite grandparents to pray with and for children and youth. Grandparents can play a powerful role in the spiritual development of younger generations by praying together with them and over them. - Plan Intergenerational Events
Host gatherings where all generations can participate. This could be a Family Sunday service, an intergenerational worship night, or a grandparent and grandchild service project. The key is to create opportunities for meaningful interaction. - Create Spiritual Grandparenting Programs
In this model, grandparents “adopt” teens or younger children in the church, building relationships, praying for them, and attending events together. This type of spiritual mentoring can have a profound impact on both the grandparent and the younger person.
Why Intergenerational Ministry Matters
When generations work together, everyone benefits. Here are just a few reasons why an intergenerational model strengthens the church:
- Unity
When all ages worship and serve together, the church functions more like a true family, reflecting the diversity of God’s people. - Wisdom
Older generations have experience and knowledge that can guide younger believers. Conversely, younger generations bring fresh energy and ideas that invigorate the whole church. - Legacy
By passing on faith intentionally, we fulfill the biblical mandate to make disciples of all nations and generations. Grandparents, in particular, are instrumental in ensuring the faith is passed down. - Connection
In an increasingly isolated society, intergenerational relationships provide much-needed connection and community. These relationships foster a sense of belonging for every age group.
Starting an Intergenerational Ministry
Moving toward an intergenerational ministry doesn’t require a massive overhaul. It starts with small, intentional steps. Gather leaders from different age groups to pray together and brainstorm ways to connect the generations. Plan quarterly services that include children, teens, and seniors in visible roles. Host events that encourage interaction between the age groups, such as intergenerational prayer meetings, service projects, or fellowship events.
A Call to Action
Imagine the impact if millions of Christian grandparents were equipped and encouraged to disciple their grandchildren. What if our churches empowered these grandparents to take the lead in intergenerational ministry, passing on their faith and wisdom to younger generations?
This is a vision worth pursuing. It’s time to mobilize the grandparents in our churches, not just as attendees, but as active, vital members of the church’s mission to make disciples of all nations—and all generations.
For More Information and to Contact Robb
Visit these websites for more information on a vision for grand parenting as a ministry:
- ElderQuest Ministries | Engaging the Generations
- Legacy Coalition – Christian Grandparenting Ministry
If you would like to contact Robb, fill out the contact form and ask to be put in touch, and we will put you in touch with him via email.
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