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In 1999 a unique and
never-before-seen ministry was formed at West Valley
Church of the Nazarene in Yakima, Washington. The
church was linked with retirement, senior living
facilities and nursing homes and became an outreach
ministry like no other. Given the name Prime Time
C.A.R.E. the “forgotten people” are no longer labeled as
such. C.A.R.E. is an acrostic standing for Christian
Advocates Responding to the
Elderly and means “when you can’t walk
through our doors, we will walk through yours.”
“I want Jesus” came from the lips
of Esther, 89 years young at the time and a resident of
an Alzheimer unit in Yakima. The first time I met
Esther, I was struck by the fact that she could only
babble incoherently. These three words were the first
of many that would pour from her lips right up to the
day she died. She was only one of several miracles
witnessed in eight years of this wonderful ministry.
Since these aging people are close
to eternity, our number one goal is to tell them about
Jesus. Sunday Worship services and weekly Bible studies
“Tell Me the Stories of Jesus.” Special services in
summer and scattered throughout the year add variety.
During Lent, a foot washing service is done. This is a
humbling experience. Flannel graphs provide the
pictures for Bible studies since “a picture is worth a
thousand words.”
Our second goal is to provide
social activities. Loneliness is conquered through
visiting. Birthdays and anniversaries are remembered
and our Mailbox Ministry provides letters where there
are none. Outings for ice cream when it’s hot or just a
drive in the country bring much pleasure. Vacations
happen through videotapes to faraway places. They come
to life on TV screens. The most popular social function
comes in the form of tea parties. Fancy hats adorn
graying heads. Tea is poured from china teapots into
china tea cups. Dessert accompanies. Quiet piano music
gives a nice backdrop while eating and musical
entertainment follows for pure pleasure. A devotional
by the Prime Time C.A.R.E. Pastor rounds out the event.
Education is a key to keeping minds
active and is the third goal. Vacation Bible School was
enjoyed when the residents were children and it has
returned to their lives. Sunday School would complete
the educational area. Curriculum geared toward elderly
people needs to be developed. Active minds can help to
stave off dementia a little longer.
A spirit of cooperation exists with
other churches and other denominations coming to the
forefront to help minister to these people.
The future holds untold promise to
minister to “these forgotten people” as more Americans
live longer. Retirement, senior living facilities and
nursing homes will enter the picture more and more. Our
churches need to take a long hard look at ministry to
these citizens because they are part of our history in
this country. Their life stories need to be captured
for future generations. They must not be
forgotten. Blessings are many when one
ministers to these great people. “I have been going to
church all my life,” said Gladys, 98 years young and a
resident of a senior living facility, “but I witnessed
the power of the Holy Spirit in the church service as
never before.” WOW! Indeed, God has come to help
his aging people.
If you would like more information
call the Church at 509-966-1550.
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