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.