Ready to grow: older adults spiritual retreat

February retreat helps older adults harness power of growing in Christ no matter one’s age

By the Rev. Cathy Joens and Jessica Brodie

MYRTLE BEACH—No matter the age, we have work to do. And together, we can do that work.

That was the word from Dr. Walter Kimbrough, who led a three-day spiritual life retreat Feb. 2-4 for South Carolina United Methodist older-than-age-50 adults.

Calling the hundreds gathered for the retreat “torch bearers,” Kimbrough shared that growing is a tough job no matter how old you are, but Christ can help. He said older adults have the power in Christ to help those who are younger to grow to a greater point in their faith.

“Who else has such a history?” he asked.

Kimbrough led four sessions over the course of the retreat: Living Life to the Fullest, Exercising the Total Self, The Gift of Stability and The Power Within You.

Revelation 2:10 became the focal point throughout: “Be faithful, even unto death.”

The retreat, held at Springmaid Beach Resort in Myrtle Beach, featured much energy among the group. Favorite times included exercise with Ruth Hughes, the sing-along, “Jump Start” with the Rev. James Grubb and plenty of fellowship opportunities with old friends and new. There were a variety of opportunities during the break, one being a showing of the movie “War Room.” District time helped people get to know each other and share important information.

The Senior Showcase talent show was a hit with silly skits and beautiful songs. A meaningful worship service rounded out the event, helping attendees take God with them as they continue to seek to grow and be faithful.

A highlight of the weekend was unfurling a new logo for the South Carolina Conference’s older adult ministries with the theme “Experiencing Renewal, Experiencing Service.” This is the group’s vision to grow together and serve together.

“As the conference person who works with older adults, I see joy and excitement about life and what life has to offer,” said the Rev. Cathy Joens. “I see eagerness to contribute and a great ability to do so. We are creative and resourceful. We are deeply spiritual and growing even more. We still need support and care from others. We need to hear that ‘you have made a difference and you make a difference.’”

Older adult ministries leaders are preparing now for next year’s spiritual life retreat, set for Feb. 7-9, 2017, again at Springmaid. Watch the Advocate for further details, including the speaker, or visit their website, here.