With the entry into a super-aged society on the verge, it is a very important task of the times to respond to changes in the demographic structure, resolve the problem of generational rifts, and find measures to coexist and integrate generations. The ...
With the entry into a super-aged society on the verge, it is a very important task of the times to respond to changes in the demographic structure, resolve the problem of generational rifts, and find measures to coexist and integrate generations. The government declared its vision of an “age-integrated society” through “Basic Plan for Low Fertility and Aging Society” in 2020 as a social innovation that responds to demographic change and generational conflict. Various fields of society are also seeking ways to achieve age integration. In preparation for a super-aged society, church needs to find ways to be age integrated. This study suggests a plan to realize an age-integrated church in preparation for a super-aged society.
First, based on the concepts of flexible age criteria and age heterogeneity, church should eliminate the structural barriers so that any generation can enjoy the opportunity of equal choice in ministry, service, and education opportunities. In addition, it is necessary to prepare worship, education, service, etc. in which generations of various ages can exchange and interact so that empathy and understanding between generations. Second, as the Bible perceives the elderly as people of wisdom and calling, the church should establish a right perception of the elderly as people who can contribute productively to the church, ministry and service opportunities must be actively provided. Finally, church should educate people that an age-integrated church is not just for the elderly, all members of the body of Christ regardless of their age, enjoy mutual-benefit and blessing.