Inspiration Comes from the Leader

John Coulombe, Provided by CN Building Adult Ministries Resource Center

Did you ever wonder what is so unique about springtime? Songwriters and poets are prolific when writing of this annual season. Nature bursts forth with new color and growth. Clocks are changed, flowers are planted, houses are cleaned. What is it? New life is in the air, in the ground and in our lives. Spring has sprung

There’s also a freshness in our FEFC Senior Adult Ministry here in Fullerton. We are beginning to freshen up and make some strategic changes in what we have previously known as the “Forever Young” ministry. Twenty-three years ago (1983) when Bob Dylan was singing his songs, the visionaries and pioneers of this work chose the name “Forever Young” which has become a model ministry for churches across the country. As our world is aging and the generations come and go, some of our FY leaders sensed the need to re-think and re-tool our ministry to reach the ‘new’ old, as well as elders and frail seniors among us. Not only change among us, but to spread their wings, gather their resources of time, talent and treasure, and actively engage in ministry opportunities within the church, within the community and throughout the world.

Living longer and healthier—never has there been such a great workforce for the Savior. With this unprecedented opportunity, we are passionate about the need to disciple, train, mobilize, bless, resource and unleash this committed team of skillful saints for Kingdom purposes.

What are the most noticeable changes right now? Forever Young is changing its name. It will now be known as Encore. It’s a great 18th century word (French) that means “again” or “continue.” At the end of a performance, an encore lets the performer know that what they did was appreciated and the audience is requesting “still more!”

There’s more life ahead. More opportunities to better know Christ. To know Him is to love Him, and you can’t love Him without serving Him. The Lord has given His followers a Great Commission—to get the Good News out; a Great Commandment—to love one another; and a Grand Goal—to shine as lights in the world, while on earth, so the world might “see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).

“Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow.” BRAVO! ENCORE! Bring it on! May it be said, “Good job, well done, good and faithful servant!”

John Coulombe has served for 20 years as Pastor to Senior Adults at First Evangelical Free Church, Fullerton C)