The History of the Golden Years Ministry of TLCC
In January 2015, Pastor Kimberley A. Ridley, presented Minister Monica Bagbey with the idea of having a Seniors Ministry at “The Light.” Minister Bagbey responded with a ministry plan and vision for the Seniors Ministry. Together, they chose the name, “The Golden Years Ministry.” The ministry plan and vision were to provide a safe space for seniors (members and nonmembers) of TLCC to fellowship, equipping them with tools and resources to enhance their quality of life spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally and financially.
The vision and plan was also to build good relationships, supporting the church and community, by offering assistance and inclusion in the overall dynamics of ministry. Monthly meetings, on the fourth Saturday of each month, would consist of age-appropriate workshops on health, safety, wellness, beauty, self-care, volunteer opportunities, employment, services and other benefits for the senior population. In addition, seniors would discover their spiritual gifts to remain active in God’s service. Pastor really loved the vision set forth and gave her “thumbs up” and the “greenlight” to go!
The first meeting was held on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at 10:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Twenty people showed up and they were treated to a delicious brunch prepared by Minister Bagbey and Sonja Hart-Staples. The rest is history…..
The group has studied, “I am a Church Member,” by Thom S.Rainer, “40 Days to a Prosperous Soul” and “The Prosperous Soul” by Cindy Trimm and “Meet Me in the Morning” by Dr. Lance Watson and many others. This group has been on a mission to live out loud and love on purpose. Some of their endeavors include: line dancing, jewelry making, paint parties, vision board gathering, just for success workshop, makeovers, photo shoots, self-care workshops, massage and chiropractic therapy, cooking sessions, two parties, gala at Southern kitchen, dinner and a movie, bingo fun, Zumba, a Richmond Trolley ride tour, and the G.Y.M. participated with a mega health and wellness fair for the 50+ with over 50 vendors in more than 400 people in attendance.
Their first event was the “T.L.C.C. Ministry Fair” and there has not been much happening here that the ministry has not assisted, in serving, setup, or cleanup or even just showing up. On Saturday, November 7, 2015, the group and leader were honored as the very first ministry to receive the Servant’s Heart Award by Pastor Ridley, at the Servant Circle meeting.
On Sunday, November 25, 2018, the group and leader were honored to receive the Unsung Servant Recognition Award by the Kingdom Resource Ministry of T.L.C.C. The Golden Years Ministry’s theme is “God is not through with me yet.” Theme song, “Living My Life like It’s Golden” by Jill Scott. Scripture is Psalm 37:25, “I have been young and now I’m old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging for bread.” Now it is March 2020 and the G.Y.M. is still smiling, still shining, still serving and still standing.
All Golden Years Ministry members please stand!