Join us as we recognize why many churches are “graying,” clarify the role of the congregation in an aging society, identify various older ministry models and ideas for ministry, describe the phases of aging and retirement, and re-frame and re-vision aging and older adult ministry in your local church setting.

The Rev. Dr. Richard H. Gentzler, Jr. (Rick) is the Director of Encore Ministry of the Tennessee Conference of The United Methodist Church. He is a retired clergy member of the Susquehanna Annual Conference. Prior to his retirement, he was the director of the Center on Aging and Older Adult Ministries for the General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church. As Director of Encore Ministry, Dr. Gentzler provides consultation, training and support, resources, and networking opportunities for church leaders in the Tennessee Conference for their ministry by, with, and for older adults. Dr. Gentzler is a much sought after speaker, teacher, and writer and is an internationally recognized leader in the field of aging and older adult ministries. Dr. Gentzler is He is the author of numerous books and hundreds of articles on aging, midlife, and older adult ministry. His latest book, “An Age of Opportunity: Intentional Older Adult Ministry,” was recently published by Discipleship Resources.