witnessing to the elderly

wahoos, welcome to the BB! I was involved in a nursing home ministry as a teen. I found that the best way was to befriend them one on one-individually. Most of them enjoyed going to a service and hearing the music and the preaching, but getting to know them one on one opened up opportunities to question them about the Lord, rather than giving a general invitation.

Hope this is helpful!

Good to meet you,

Joy

 

We hold services at the nursing home in our town, but we also try to be with our congregation there in between services. The services need to be kept to an hour, max, because they get weary so easily; but they love hymn singing, special singing by an individual or group, music, the reading of the Word, and simple exposition of Scripture; as well as prayer for individual needs.
Sitting & talking with each one afterwords is a time of real one-on-one ministry. They love it! They also love seeing children of all ages, as long as they are well-behaved.
The people love to receive beautiful cards (make sure the writing is in large print!), booklets of Scripture in large print (RBC Ministries makes a large print version of "Our Daily Bread"), and lots of warm hugs.
They like talking about their growing up years, or playing a game of checkers, or just hearing you share too.
We've found these "forgotten ones" are so appreciative of whatever attention you give them, they'll be your friend for life if you just give them Christian love & a little time.
Please do visit nursing homes & give those people the love of Jesus! Matt 25: Jesus said, "If you've done it to the least of these...you've done it unto Me."

 

Wahoos, the best witness to the elderly in a nursing home is the 5th Gospel (the Gospel according to you)!

Older people like to talk. They want you to listen to them. They may have the story repeated often, but they like to talk. You have to be attentive, show genuine interest in them. And when they told you all their stories, and life experiences they may ask about you. That is the time to tell them what has the Lord done in your life. Wish you God's speed in your personal witnessing!

By the way, why dodn't you stop by the Welcoming forum and introduce yourself. I am sure the folks would like to know who you are, what are your interests, and a little bit about your personal journey of faith. Looking forward to see you there!