E.K. church reaching out to seniors

The Sherwood Park Lutheran Church is going out of its way to give seniors the opportunity to worship and socialize.

“For many people there comes a time when they can’t get out anymore and people need social interaction,” Rev. Tom Lurvey told The Herald.

The church is starting a daytimers’ senior worship “for the body and soul” beginning Oct. 18.

Services will run on the third Thursday of each month and the church is offering rides to and from the church for those who need assistance getting to the service.

Lurvey said the service will be customized to seniors and will include traditional hymns.

“I know seniors like to sing familiar hymns they remember from their younger days,” said Lurvey, who also said the holy communion will be taken on level ground to avoid climbing steps.

Following the service everyone will have a chance to socialize over coffee, tea and dainties.

“I hope everyone can enjoy each other’s company and make those connections so people don’t feel so isolated,” said Lurvey.

Vince Sansreget, community facilitator for Access River East, said isolation and lack of transportation are serious issues when it comes to the health of senior citizens.

“Isolation and transportation are interconnected when you want to provide outreach to older adults,” he said.

“Something as simple as having coffee or tea with peers provides health benefits.”

Lurvey said the motivation to start the seniors service developed from his congregation’s desire to do more outreach in the community.

He said Access River East also played a major role.

Access River East is a multi-use facility that is operated in part with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. They had invited churches and community groups to an information session that discussed the needs of seniors.

“They encouraged community groups to develop programs that would benefit seniors in the community,” said Lurvey “We are grateful for that.”

The first service is on Oct. 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. Transportation is available by calling 661-3947.

Sherwood Park Lutheran is located at 7 Tudor Cres. at London Street.