Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Discover a new way to worship during this Dementia-Friendly Worship Service on Dec. 16 in Birmingham
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Tis the season for giving, togetherness. But what about those who are unable to worship in a typical Sunday service due to Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s or stroke? This December 16 at 1:30PM, Asbury United Methodist Church is offering a new way to worship in Birmingham with a Dementia-Friendly Worship Service. Here’s what this service is all about, plus more ways to celebrate the holiday season.
A New Worship Service
Have you heard about Asbury’s Anchor Community Respite Ministry? Their Anchor Program provides fellowship and stimulation for people living with memory loss due to Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and stroke. It also provides caregivers a break from their daily demands and focus on themselves. Learn about one person’s experience with the program.
While the Christmas season can be full of joy, it can also pose hardships for those with things like memory loss, along with their families and caregivers. That’s why Asbury’s Anchor Community Respite Ministry has created this special Dementia-Friendly Worship Service on December 16 at 1:30PM.
During this special service, you can expect:
- Christmas hymns
- A short sermon in a relaxed and casual atmosphere
- Communion
The service also includes a unique sermon by Asbury’s Pastor Maggie Dunaway—The Heart that Great Three Sizes. Based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the sermon is sure to capture your heart and remind you what the holiday season is all about.
“This service is designed especially for people with memory loss but it’s really for anyone who just can’t sit quietly. If they want to move, talk, clap, sing—it’s all allowed and encouraged. We want people to experience Christmas joy through worship and they are welcome. There is no dress code, there are no expectations.”
Gina McIntyre, Director, Anchor Community Respite Ministry
Event Details
What: Dementia-friendly worship service
When: December 16 | 1:30PM
Where: Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, AL 35242
Who is Asbury?
Don’t know much about Asbury UMC? Here are a few things to know:
- It’s located in North Shelby County, about 20 minutes outside downtown Birmingham.
- It offers both traditional and contemporary worship services.
- It’s been a place for worshipping God and creating faithful followers of Christ for 33 years.
- It tithes 10% of its annual giving to local/international mission organizations.
A wonderful thing to know about Asbury is that everyone is welcome. No matter who you are, where you are or how you like to worship, there are ways to celebrate Christmas at Asbury.
More holiday events to take part in this season at Asbury
1. 27 Days of Advent
Asbury has kicked off the Advent Season with something special—27 days of video advent devotionals.
During the month of December, visit Asbury’s website to view a new video for prayers, reflections and more. Each video is truly unique and perfect for the whole family.
Tune in now through Friday, December 24.
You can also visit Asbury for their advent sermon The Heart That Grew Three Sizes. Based on The Grinch That Stole Christmas, attend the sermon on December 5, 12, 19 and 28.
2. A Christmas Cantata
Love the sounds of the season? You’ll get all the feels during Asbury’s Christmas Cantata. Taking place Sunday, December 19 at 11AM, this annual concert is one holiday program you won’t want to miss!
Asbury has a truly amazing music ministry with chancel choir, orchestra and handbell choir, so prepare for a joyous (and free!) performance.
3. Christmas Eve Worship
If you’re seeking somewhere to celebrate Christmas Eve this year, Asbury is offering four candlelight communion services on December 24. So while you’re busy preparing for the arrival of Old Saint Nick, family gatherings and more, you’ll have several opportunities to attend.
Experience their traditional worship service (Traditions) in the sanctuary at 4PM, 8PM for 11PM. For a modern worship service, visit The Bridge in Williams Chapel at 6PM. Traveling during the holidays, or prefer to worship from afar? You can still take part in Asbury’s Christmas Even service by tuning in to your 30-minute virtual service anytime on December 24.
Want to celebrate the season with Asbury United Methodist Church? All are welcome! Visit them at 6690 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, AL 35242. To learn more, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
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