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In 1976, 7.6 million of Canada's population were 50+. Beginning in 1996 and
continuing until the year 2012, an additional 9.8 million Canadians (Baby
Boomers born between 1946 and 1964) will turn 50. This totals about 17.4 million
Canadians age 50 and over.
Since people are living healthier and longer, it is quite conceivable that the
majority
of those who are currently in their 60's to 80's will be still living.
Statistics
Canada projects that the population of Canada in 2012 will be between
34 and 35
million. Since the fertility rate is currently 1.6 which is well below the
replacement
rate of 2.1, the majority of this population increase will be
accounted for through
immigration and longevity of life. Thus it is quite
conceivable that by the year
2012, close to 50% of Canada's population could
be aged 50 and over.
The "over 55" age group is growing numbers 3 times faster than the population
at
large.
There are more people over 65 than under 18 in Canada.
Psychologist, Gerontologist and Aging authority, Ken Dychtwald says: "Maturity
is
about to undergo a revolution like nothing the world has ever seen."
Some churches assume that people in their 50 Plus years either are not
interested, or can't do much in the area of ministry. This assumption is totally
wrong. Setting up "Seniors" lunches, Bible studies,
and travel opportunities are
just serving the 50+ crowd, not mobilizing
them for service.
There is an enormous ministry potential sitting in our pews, let's not miss it.
We've added years to life, now we must add life to those years! Psalms 90:12
states,
"Teach us to number (add significance) to our days."
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