Malcolm Goldsmith founded Faith in Older People because he was very aware that not only do older people have specific needs but that quite often, they cease to attend their church without anyone really knowing why.
He developed a deep knowledge of the impact of dementia both on those experiencing it and on their carers, as well as the need to ensure that churches enable their continued inclusion in worship and the companionship of members of the congregation. Faith in Older People is a response to the needs of older people and the importance of providing practical support to clergy, pastoral carers and others.
FiOP has picked up his challenge:
“…to face up to the presence of dementia within our midst is to discover opportunities for service and growth that are entirely consistent with the church’s distinctive mission and role within society. To ignore that challenge is to raise serious questions about our understanding of what it means to be a church but also about our understanding of what it means to be human” (In a Strange Land- Malcolm Goldsmith).
Whilst dementia has been a key focus for FiOP, as we developed and consulted upon a learning resource for faith communities we have taken the challenge to look beyond dementia. We need to confront the difficult issues facing all individuals and communities, and we must strive for the inclusion of those who are vulnerable, lonely and isolated, bereaved, experiencing physical and mental distress and those who need the support and comfort that the church brings.
FiOP works with those of all faiths and none to celebrate the lives of older people and to recognise and appreciate the vital contribution that faith communities play in supporting people in their place of worship, in their own homes, or in a care setting.
We want to help people feel confident, competent and comfortable in including those who have different needs, abilities and capacity. We must say ‘hello’ and not shrink from conversations around loss, whatever kind, because we feel we don’t know what to say. We need to remember that this could be us at some time.
FiOP works collaboratively with a range of individuals and organisations that enables us to benefit from the skills, knowledge and expertise of those who can develop and promote our work. Whilst dementia will continue to be a critical issue, we also focus on loneliness and isolation, mental health, spiritual care, education for health and social care staff, and always with an ecumenical and inter faith approach.
Perhaps we just need to remind ourselves of St Paul’s words “faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love”.
Faith in Older People website: https://www.faithinolderpeople.org.uk/
February 2020