Lutheran worship connects aged care residents – with God and each other

Lutheran worship connects aged care residents – with God and each other

Two ladies in their 90s who recently moved into residential aged care with Lutheran Services in Queensland are enjoying new experiences and connections – spiritual and social. Neither lady had ever been to a church service before. While they felt no obligation to attend worship, their curiosity and local cordiality drew them to join one Sunday morning.

Throughout the service, they heard about God’s deep love for them through the Bible readings, liturgy and the pastor’s sermon. They were assisted with the service orders and listened to the hymns being sung. Although they didn’t know the hymns, the words and music stirred deeply in their hearts.

During Holy Communion, the pastor asked the ladies if they would like to receive God’s blessing. Both gratefully accepted and were clearly moved. After the service, the pastor spoke with them, and other residents also introduced themselves. The ladies shared that they felt welcomed and accepted and would like to come to the service again.

Both now attend worship regularly, wanting to hear more about God’s grace and love for them. One regularly attends the weekly Bible study and has formed friendships with the other residents who also attend. With little family and failing health, she has found great comfort and acceptance since coming to worship and Bible study. She now has a devotion book, some Lutheran tracts and a large-print Bible.

Two other residents who previously identified with another faith have now joined the Lutheran Church. They felt welcomed by the pastor and found it easy to follow the liturgy. These residents were curious to learn more about the Lutheran understanding of Holy Communion and had conversations with the pastor and chaplain. One of the residents is now doing the Bible readings during the weekly service. Having a greater understanding of Holy Communion and God’s grace has led them to identify as Lutheran.