Pastor Aaron Wardle of Wangaratta Baptist Church reflects on a recent information seminar that the church hosted for seniors.
How can we bring hope to more people? That’s a question that is always front of mind for us at Wangaratta Baptist Church. So, when we heard about the Finishing Well Seminar that was run earlier in the year by the BUV, and then also got an email around the same time from our local council about a Seniors Fest running in October, it seemed like a no-brainer – let’s combine the two, and bring hope to Seniors by meeting some real needs that they have for information and support.
The morning began with a presentation by Gary from Seniors Rights Victoria. Gary was an excellent presenter and was so knowledgeable about the laws surrounding changes in circumstances that occur later in life. He explained all the different aspects of medical treatment decision makers, advance care directives, enduring powers of attorney both financial and personal, the legal assistance available and so much more. Mark from Baptcare then presented a session on in-home care options and how to register. He encouraged those present to get assessed, or get their loved ones assessed and begin the process, so that people can remain in their own home for longer by accessing the help that is available.
The 15 or so in attendance then enjoyed a wonderful morning tea where many conversations and connections in community occurred, before a Q&A Session, followed by an opportunity for me to present on grief and loss. This was followed by Kat, a local funeral director, sharing about the final stages of life and the best ways to care for those you leave behind by being prepared and sharing your wishes for your funeral with those you love. She explained how funeral directors can assist in this process as well. Kat has come from a palliative care background before joining her family’s funeral home, so was a wonderfully knowledgeable presenter once again.
Everyone who attended were so thankful for the very informative and practical advice they each received, and it showed how important it is to have these difficult but essential conversations with those whom we love as our number of birthdays we have left to celebrate get fewer and fewer. There was a real sense of hope and optimism in the room, learning that there is support and care available,. It was a privilege as host to share about the support network and family that a church provides, and then invite those present, that if they are looking for connection and support, to consider engaging with a local church which would certainly welcome them, connect them in relationship, and love and support them.
As far as events go, this was a simple, almost no cost gathering that met real needs, provided hope and connection, and I would certainly recommend hosting one at your church if you have the opportunity to!
If you are interested in attending or hosting a Finishing Well Seminar, please contact our Partnership Development Pastor, Andrew.Naylor@buv.com.au