(9th – 13th July 2024)
Selkirk and Ashkirk Parish Church
Engaging seniors in mission
-If you can’t get to the seaside why not take the seaside to you!
Invitations were distributed to people 70 years plus to come and have a fun time together with food, laughter and faith in equal measure.
“We were especially mindful of those who might be isolated or have not had a break. We hoped to break down some of the dated ideas people may have formed about church and faith.
We had a 3 day programme offering morning coffee, a light 3 course lunch and after
noon tea, all catered and of very high quality. We decorated our premises on a
“Seaside” theme and had a range of workshops with plenty of room for participants to
relax. Some chose singing, exercise, reminiscence, poetry, sign language, art, crochet,
photo booth, fairground stalls and more. We had a very popular Souvenir Shop.
“Sea of Galilee Tales”, were simply told without Bible readings. People were gently introduced to Jesus and his invitation to follow, be welcomed and loved (5 mins max) We had a box of free preloved books on various themes for folk to take away and some did. We had 3 Christian book reviews, one each day, which segued into “My Story” testimonies, and we gave out Goody Bags at the end of the day which included Christian literature, something tasty and a memento to remind them of the theme. eg 23rd Psalm book mark, a wee woolly sheep and a Tunnocks Teacake!. We concluded our day with a hymn/song which we thought everyone would know.
We had up to 23 guests join with us and were blessed with a fantastic team of volunteers. Over the 3 days we had 35 team members including 2 teens. This allowed us to invite our volunteers to
become participants some coming every day. This worked out really well. All our “holiday makers” were given lots of attention and support as required.
Holiday at Home was noticed by the local community and was talked about widely in the town.
A Seeds for Growth Level 1 award help launch this initiative.
For those of us organising “Holiday at Home” we stepped outside our
comfort zone and our faith has been strengthened. Our fellowship has grown and this“toe in the water” faith venture has been a positive experience.
Further to the event a successful ‘Hymns we love’ and Christmas tea was held in November and folks are looking forward to next summer!