Evergreen - a conference for Christians serving older people

Evergreen is a conference for Christians who work with older people — in churches, ministries, chaplaincy, or the community. Hosted by Pilgrims’ Friend Society, the day will offer biblical teaching, practical wisdom, and spiritual encouragement for this vital and growing ministry area. The ticket price includes refreshments and a light lunch.

Keynote address: They Matter to God

Mark Wormell author of Coming to Christ in Dementia

People living with dementia matter deeply to God. In this keynote address, Mark Wormell will explore the challenges that dementia presents and consider how God's view of us shapes our response to those challenges. Drawing on insights from his book,Coming to Christ in Dementia, he will reflect on what dementia means for those who already have faith, and the ways in which God brings people with dementia into His kingdom. This session will encourage and equip anyone seeking to support the spiritual lives of older people and those affected by dementia.

Seminars:

Dementia: Three ways of providing spiritual care with Mark Wormell

Drawing on his experience of supporting people living with dementia, Mark Wormell will explore three key aspects of spiritual care. He will consider the lasting value of visiting people with dementia, share practical insights into leading meaningful chapel services, and highlight the unique role that music can play in nurturing faith, connection, and wellbeing.

Reaching older people with God’s love and good news with Alexandra Huggins and Pippa Cramer

Older people are one of the most overlooked mission fields in the UK today, yet many are open to friendship, faith, and meaningful connection. Join Pippa Cramer and Alexandra Huggins for this inspiring and practical seminar as they explore the biblical call and cultural opportunity to share God's love with older generations. Drawing on their experience of ministry among older people, they will offer practical ideas for developing seniors' ministries that foster belonging, purpose, and opportunities to encounter the gospel. The session will include time for questions and discussion, leaving you with fresh encouragement and practical next steps to help your church engage more effectively with older people in your community.

Why talk about dying? with Lucy Honeysett

Though it will happen to us all, death and dying is still a subject we tend to avoid. And yet we know dying well is rarely a coincidence, it takes honest, gentle, careful planning to ensure people receive the care they need and want and remain in a place of their choosing with a dignified, peaceful death. Lucy Honeysett is a hospice nurse with decades of experience. In this seminar, she will share what it means to plan well for the end of life, including the practical, emotional, and spiritual considerations involved. Lucy will explain the signs of deterioration and approaching death, and consider how we can respond with compassion, confidence, and care to support both individuals and those around them during this significant stage of life.