Nothing good ever came from a tsunami. So why is it acceptable to refer to 73 million baby boomers as a “silver tsunami”—as if they are a looming catastrophe? This phrase is just one example of how dismissive language about aging subtly shapes our culture and influences the way older adults are treated.

For many, summer camp memories are made of songs, s’mores, crafts, and carefree afternoons. But for the 25 intergenerational participants of Camp BAM 2025, their most meaningful memories were forged through sweat, service, and shared prayers with aging adults still recovering from disaster.

We have all heard the phrase, “You can’t teach an old dog, new tricks.” However, God never views our lives that way, no matter how old we are. In the NCBAM Call Center we regularly take 400-500 calls each month and nearly 80% of our clients are unchurched. We are constantly reminded of the importance of sharing the Gospel (Good News) with those we encounter. We believe that God desires for everyone to begin a new life through a relationship with Jesus Christ, no matter their age. (If you know of a person who needs help, have them call the NCBAM Call Center, Monday-Friday, 9am to 5pm at
877-506-2226.)

Approximately one in five North Carolinians is age 65 or older. Many are aging well; countless others are struggling. At the NCBAM Call Center, we hear their stories every day. Medical bills and rising costs have eliminated savings. Homes are in need of repair and some individuals haven’t left home in months or even years because of a few unpassable steps.

Recently, I found myself in a new, unforeseen season of life. I moved from my lifelong hometown where I had close family, a tight-knit friend group, and a church where I had actively served for over 30 years, to a new city 200 miles away.

While recently reading through the Psalms of David, I came across the verse from chapter 34 that states,
“The Lord is close to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” While reading, I was immediately drawn to think of the numerous people who are lonely and feel isolated.

Connie Clark’s home sits high above a peaceful tree-lined street in Lexington. Its broad and comfortable front porch is tidy and swept clean. Potted plants cozy up next to each of the old porch’s posts – peace lilies, anemones and hydrangea cuttings each enjoying their own slice of shade.

“There’s no doubt we are called to do this. I’m a Call Center Specialist for North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM) and my husband is a Pastor, but at our core, we’re both missionaries.” Shirley Carlson is referring to her and her husband’s recent work providing Disaster Relief services with Baptists on Mission after Hurricane Helene.

Within the steep hills, deep valleys, and the branches, streams, and hollows in western North Carolina, there is a light shining: God’s Light! And this light shines through Christ followers, through His church.

I believe that God’s children have within them the strongest light in the universe, if they will let it shine. This is our purpose, to let the light of Jesus Christ shine. (“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16)