2024
Dear friends, here comes Christmas! You know what that means — intergenerational mixing. Did you know
each generation has a name? Keeping up with generational nicknames is like trying to learn a new language
—there’s always more to memorize! First, we had the Greatest Generation, who survived the Great Depression
and World War II. Then came the Baby Boomers, thriving in post-war optimism and building suburban
neighborhoods. Gen X followed, the latchkey kids who mastered independence. Millennials (Gen Y) entered
the scene with smartphones in hand and a craving for meaningful work, while Gen Z brought us TikTok and a
level of digital fluency that leaves the rest of us googling “how to use Google.” Finally, Gen Alpha, born
entirely in the 21st century, thinks landline phones are ancient relics.
This diversity makes church ministry a real adventure. How do you build community and make disciples when
some folks remember ration stamps while others have never touched a paper map? Unlike corporations,
churches don’t have marketing teams to tailor messages to different demographics. Pastors have the
challenge of crafting sermons and programs that speak to seniors, middle-aged parents, college students,
and children—all at once.
Thankfully, scripture hands us a roadmap. Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation shall commend your works to
another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” God designed faith to be passed down, and Titus 2:1-8 provides
a model for intergenerational discipleship, calling older believers to mentor the young. This isn’t just practical;
it’s central to who we are as the church.
Of course, intergenerational ministry isn’t without its bumps. Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life Together reminds us
that community is essential for our spiritual growth—but it’s also messy. Those in positions of influence, like
Boomers and the Greatest Generation, are called to practice radical hospitality (Romans 12:13). This isn’t just
about letting the kids pick the worship songs. It means truly valuing their voices, even when their ideas stretch
us. (Yes, that includes tolerating phrases like “let’s vibe on that,” and “No worries!”)
Younger generations, on the other hand, can take a page from Proverbs 4:1: “Listen, my kids, to a parent’s
instruction.” Older members of the church have stories of faith and sacrifice that are worth hearing—especially
over coffee they didn’t have to brew themselves.
In a world where loneliness is called an epidemic, the church has an opportunity to bridge generational gaps.
Through shared worship and ministry, elders can pour wisdom and encouragement into young people
(Proverbs 22:6), while the energy of younger generations can inspire and invigorate their elders (Joel 2:28). Plus,
who doesn’t love seeing a teenager teach a senior how to send their first emoji? (Wait – what’s an emoji? Will
sending it take 1 stamp or 2?)
Ephesians 4:16 reminds us that the church thrives when “each part is working properly.” When we embrace
the joy and mess of intergenerational ministry, we show the world what God’s kingdom looks like: diverse,
united, and brimming with love. Together, we reflect the beauty of the body of Christ.
Merry Christmas to you generations!
In the grip of Grace this Christmas,
Pastor Peter
Pastor Peter J. Blank (aging Baby Boomer)