An intergenerational church is one where all ages are working together towards a common goal – sharing and growing in their faith.
When we create space for children and youth to belong and identify, we enable them to feel welcomed, loved and accepted into the wider church family. Building relationships with children and youth is the responsibility of all members of the church.
We love this definition of what the term intergenerational means:
“A gathered group of multiple generations in meaningful relationships with one another where all have the opportunity to teach and to learn from others.”
Christina Embree
Check out the great resources below.
Check out this new collaborative project from some children’s ministry leaders in New Zealand, to help churches in their intergenerational journey. Download it here!
Helpful Resources
Books
InterGenerate is a collection of chapters from a wide range of authors, covering topics such as:
- From Multigenerational to Intergenerational
- Intergenerational Communities and a Theology of Accommodation
Catterton Allen, H. (Eds) InterGenerate, Abilene Christian University Press, Libscomb, USA.
Intergenerational Christian Formation is the ‘go to’ book of all things intergen. It’s an easy and enjoyable read, and lays the foundation for why the church should seek to bring the generations together for worship, service and life.
Catterton Allen, H. and Lawton, Ross C. Intergenerational Christian Formation: Bringing the Whole Church Together in Ministry, Community and Worship, Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2012.
Both books can be borrowed from the Leadership Co-ordination Director