Does the American church divide its body by age? Let me start out by saying that I am not picking a side in this discussion. One of the best phrases that I heard in regards to this topic is “both/and” rather than “either/or.” I have appreciated meeting with groups in my age range at church. There are benefits to being able to “relate” to struggles in other Christians’ lives. So lets continue this discussion with the understanding that “both/and” is a reasonable conclusion.
In general, age grouping is certainly not underused in the American church. See: “young adults,” “young marrieds,” “families,” “seniors,” “high school,” “jr. high,” etc. But if the practice is overused, then you will find it hard to live out some actual Biblical commands of the young being instructed by the old.
If children are constantly surrounded and more importantly, influenced by, other children, whether in or outside of church, then they will lack an appropriate input of wisdom that comes from older people who have lived a life experiencing God’s faithfulness. If teens are only grouped with other teens, then their world becomes an echo chamber of the doubts of youth. We need older saints to pour into their lives.
Therefore, if we can (I hope) agree that “age grouping” could be positive or negative depending on its use, and that an overuse would be a negative because it would get in the way of Biblical commands, then what we should strive for is a healthy (Biblical) balance.
There are plenty of methods to balance age grouping in your church. One of them is by starting a Creation Journaling group! Creation Journaling is appropriate for elementary up to seniors.
I deeply appreciate the way that my children have been able to journal and discuss Biblical truth alongside seniors. It is important to me that my children see other adults- not just their parents- acknowledge the truth of God. Creation Journaling is a place where seniors are accepted and respected by my children, and also a place where my children can be accepted and loved by seniors.
Running a Creation Journaling group is laid-back, relaxing, fun, and worshipful! If you have a heart for bringing people of all ages together to acknowledge and thank the Creator for his gift of creation, then consider hosting your own event!
