Crescendo
Aging is not optional. How we do it is.
Crescendo, an initiative of Make and Deepen Disciples, is focused on equipping pastors, staff, and church leaders to unleash the potential of boomers and beyond to engage in the work of God’s kingdom. The holistic approach of Crescendo is rooted in biblical models, historical evidence, and current studies of aging. These inform us that purposeful living and giving of oneself in serving others directly correlates to spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, and emotional well-being.
About Crescendo
An age wave of tsunami proportion is here. 10,000 people have turned 65 each day since 2011 and will continue to do so through 2029. It is estimated that by 2035, the US will have more people who are 65+ than under 18. We believe the church today is called to challenge boomers and beyond to engage in purposeful living as missional disciples. The later years of life can be a fulfilling and productive season for advancing Christ’s mission.
The name Crescendo comes to us from the world of music. It is defined as a gradual increase and building to a strong culmination. This concept is at the heart of the Crescendo initiative. God desires that all live fully into his purposes for the entirety of our lives. As the psalmist says,
“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green” -Psalm 92:12-14.
Featured Resource
Adding Zest to Life
How are we staying fresh and green all the days of our lives? This six-week series will focus on a framework for Crescendo living called SPICES. It is intended to inspire boomers and beyond to hear what God is saying about their value in His plan, the importance of continued growth, and the significance of passing on the faith to future generations and serving the Lord in their communities.
Leadership Team
The Crescendo team seeks to raise awareness of the issues surrounding aging and to provide a framework for holistic ministry. The vision is to help boomers and beyond to unleash their potential and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live with purpose, vitality, and mission in the later stages of life.
Johnson and Forsman are authors of Crescendo: An Ascent to Vital Living, a resource for churches and individuals. Blue wrote the book’s foreword.
