Why Begin with the “Active Adult Communities?”
The Haymarket area is home to three “active adult” communities—adults 55 and over—with approximately 5500 residents, thus representing a significant mission field. This population is currently underserved spiritually based on demographic information about the new churches in this area, most of which are focusing on younger families.
According to a leading developmental theorist, Eric Erickson, people in this phase of life are in the developmental phase called “Integrity vs. Despair”. The main question in this phase that people begin to ask themselves is “Have I lived a full life?”
According to Erickson, it is during this time that many people contemplate their accomplishments and whether they have lived a successful life. If people feel that they have been unproductive in life, or feel that they did not accomplish certain important life goals, they become frustrated with life and develop despair, often leading to depression and hopelessness. Many people in this situation realize that they are at a crossroads in their lives. We believe that Christ is the unique solution to this issue and only he can bring true fulfillment, meaning and purpose in life.
Whether young or old, at any age, we are always at a crossroads, a place of decision every day…every hour. We all need to meet Christ at these crossroads so that we can follow the unique path that He has set for each of us.
These “active adult” communities also possess significant resources that can be utilized to impact the entire Haymarket community. These include financial resources, leisure time resources, and expertise in a wide array of fields. The Scriptures even give us the imperative: “One generation will commend your works to another, they will tell of your mighty acts” (Psalm 145: 4).
There are currently a variety of Presbyterian congregations represented in these communities (i.e., Dominion Valley, Heritage Hunt, Dunbarton), and thus we are poised to enhance existing personal ministries of these individuals and launch new initiatives.
In addition, active adults, many of whom are retired or semi-retired have exceptional opportunities to witness to their children and grandchildren during this season of their lives. They also have more free time be involved in community activities and outreach—a fact documented in many of the adult community newspapers. It is an age when the wisdom, the expertise, the generosity, and the faith of the elders can be passed along.
In Jeremiah we are told, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”
This new mission has the goal of helping people in this community—young and old alike—find the “good way” of the Lord and follow it in their lives so that they will have rest for their souls.