|
We older adults in the Presbyterian Church want to be recognized as a lively force in the church and community in which we live. We DO give a hoot about our fellow Christians and all of the elderly people in our communities. We are not ready, yet, to sit down and let the rest of the world go by. Because of our strong feelings regarding our place in the community, we want to encourage all of those of retirement age and older to take an active part in the places where they live.
Our two presbyteries, Missouri River Valley and Homestead, are anxious to assist us in our endeavors, and for this we are extremely pleased. We urge other churches to see the possibilities for their senior adults.
From a suggestion regarding a name which is easy to say and remember, came the idea of a title and an emblem, or mascot, of OWLS. It is more fun to say we are OWLS than we are senior adults. Everyone knows that we are seniors by our appearance. The letters in the name stand for Older—Wiser—Livelier—Saints, and we have an emblem we use on our letterhead that is easily recognized.
The thought was voiced that there could be OWLS groups in our various churches if the idea really catches on. There was a time when Mariners were active, either as part of a national or local organization, but now most are either not affiliated or no longer active. Many churches have no activities just for retirement-aged members. The very backbone of most churches is bent or broken.
For several years our annual celebration has been two mid-week days during September. This allows the attendees to go home for church on Sunday. The committee, made up of members from several churches in the two presbyteries, meet monthly to prepare what we feel will be the most interesting, informative, and entertaining programs we could possibly provide for those who choose to attend. We've had nothing but positive comments from those attending. One of our entertainments was the Sarpy Serenaders, a Papillion men's barbershop group.
The committee is preparing another exciting get-together. We want to spread the news. You see, we DO GIVE A HOOT about our celebration and want to share it with YOU!
With a beautiful setting, Camp Calvin Crest - isn't that a perfect place for a gathering of OWLS? We will have more to tell you later, but if you want to hear more now, call Brad Field, 402/489-5676 or George Hooper, 402/339-2602.
|
