Title: Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Respond to Aging Society ELCA NEWS SERVICE - NEWSBRIEFS December 9, 1996 OUTDOOR MINISTRIES RESPOND TO AGING SOCIETY Leaders of Lutheran ministries outdoors took on issues of an aging America with "Celebrate Life: Outdoor Ministry in Our Aging Society," a conference at Beaver Creek, Colo. The event was developed out of a concern for an aging society, according to its sponsors, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and National Lutheran Outdoors Ministry Association. About 400 outdoor ministry professionals learned about the aging process, older adult issues and programmatic opportunities for outdoor ministries through workshops and presentations at the Oct. 30- Nov. 3 event. "Participants looked at ways of enhancing outdoor ministry programs, extending beyond youth to include aging adults' programs and inter-generational offerings," said Rod Boriack, ELCA associate director for outdoor ministries. Boriak pointed to the Census Bureau's report that the number of persons living in the United States who are 50 to 59 years old is projected to increase by 50 percent in the next ten years. Some "Celebrate Life!" participants attended pre-conference workshops on retirement planning, productive aging and emotional-wellness, the physical realities of aging and disabilities, and inter- generational education. The issues of aging were explored through special performances blending drama, music, audience interaction and improvisational acting. "Celebrate Life!" was made possible through Aid Association for Lutherans, a fraternal benefit organization based in Appleton, Wis. For information contact: Ann Hafften, Dir., ELCA News Service, (312) 380-2958 or [log in to unmask]; Frank Imhoff, Assoc. Dir., (312) 380-2955 or [log in to unmask]; Melissa Ramirez, Assist. Dir., (312) 380-2956 or [log in to unmask]