Kindred Spirits: The Primetimers (Christ the Savior, Bluff City, TN)
The second interview in our new “Kindred Spirits” series shines a spotlight on the Prime Timers from the parish of Christ the Savior in Bluff City, TN. We spoke with parishioner Kathi Clement.
FLM: How long has your group been active?
Kathi Clement: The Primetimers (open to all parishioners, age 50 and up) have been active since January, 2014. We do not refer to ourselves as Senior Citizens; we are Mature Adults.
Our Mission: To stimulate the spiritual, social and interpersonal interaction of our members aged 50 and over in a loving and comfortable environment through Orthodox based fellowship.
Our Purpose: An Adult Ministry that brings members together for worship, education, service and fellowship through book reading, discussions, outings and luncheons, fundraising and shut-in visitation.
This ministry provides the opportunity for our aged 50+ parishioners to get together with friends, meet new people, enjoy fellowship over coffee, as well as plan enjoyable events and lunches. These activities are also meant to be informative, service-oriented, interesting and fun.
FLM: How often does your group meet?
Kathi: Originally, the group was meeting monthly on a weekday, but that was perhaps too often. After our summer hiatus, we will re-visit the meeting frequency; bi-monthly or quarterly on a week-end may be more practical.
FLM: What is the group’s current membership numbers?
Kathi: We have 14 registered members. Events are open to spouses or sometimes all parishioners.
FLM: Can you give us some highlights of your group’s yearly activities?
- Guest Speaker: Senior Nursing Specialist Topic: Senior Health and Taking Care of Yourself
- Guest Speaker: Presbytera Topic: The Role of the Priest’s Wife
- Guest Speaker: Occupational Therapist Topic: Exercises and stretching for older adults
- Book club
- Weeded Church garden
- Pot Luck luncheons
- Had lunch or dinner at several restaurants owned by parishioners
- Icon Tour at local Episcopal Church
- Signed and sent greeting cards to our shut-ins
- Signed and gave Christmas cards to the Red Cross for distribution to the military
FLM: Within the life the church, where do you feel our senior citizens can contribute the most?
Kathi: Mature Adults have a lot to offer to the church.
- They have a lot of life and business experience and come from a variety of backgrounds.
- They are excellent resources for administrative tasks that requires organization or a different type of thought process.
- They can start ministries.
- They are excellent mentors.
- They can be outreach ambassadors.
- They can be members of the Strategic Planning Committee.
- They can teach Sunday School.
- They look after young children in the Nursery, so parents can attend Liturgy.
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