Senior adults an untapped resource for churches, Barnes says

GRAPEVINE—Older adults are the fastest-growing demographic in Texas, SBTC senior adult associate Billy Barnes says. Barnes has served as senior adult pastor at New Braunfels First Baptist Church for the past 16 years and hopes his new position with the SBTC will engage seniors statewide in significant ministry.

With life expectancies now in the mid-80s, senior adults remain an untapped resource for kingdom work, according to Barnes.

“[SBC president] Ronnie Floyd has called on Southern Baptists to reach 1,000,000 people for Christ. Senior adults can be a big part of that. They have the time, resources, knowledge and expertise,” Barnes said.

“Seniors need to do ministry in church and community. They can have a mission field right where they are. They don’t have to go to Timbuktu.”

Barnes joined the SBTC in November and has already assisted churches of all sizes in South, Central and North Texas to develop programs.

“Most large churches already have senior adult programs and ministers,” Barnes explained.

After phone conversations to determine needs, Barnes visits the church and then offers counsel regarding leadership teams and methods of involving members.

“The faster you get more people involved, the faster your ministry will grow,” Barnes said. “Church is a family of faith. The friendships made at church are often the most meaningful relationships in a senior adult’s life.”

The 62-year-old West Texas native and New Braunfels resident of 27 years is excited about helping churches’ senior adult ministries.

The SBTC has scheduled four conferences for senior adults:  March 17 at FBC Katy; March 19 at the SBTC offices in Grapevine; Sept. 10 at FBC New Braunfels; and Sept. 24 at Mobberly BC in Longview.

For more information, see sbtexas.com/senioradults or contact Billy Barnes.