Dancing for God

In this short blog for Faith in Later Life, Ann, a member of “The Christian Dance Fellowship of Britain”, shares with us some lovely ideas for helping older people to enjoy movement together, whilst praising God.

I’m an older person who’s a member of “The Christian Dance Fellowship of Britain” and I believe that we can use our body in praise.

Christian gentle movement groups for seniors are wonderful.  Colourful pom-pom shakers can be used (like USA cheerleaders use.)   These are safe because they have no stick, and are light and easy to hold as they have a handle.  Many older people appreciate melodic songs such Graham Kendrick’s “Shine Jesus Shine” and “The Servant King”, and Marilyn Baker’s songs such as “Jesus, you are Changing me.”  The light movement can be done standing up or sitting down and I ask people to only do what feels comfortable to their body, with no stress or strain.

There’s no pressure and it’s very gentle – so it’s ideal for older people.  I point out that we’re not dancing to impress other people – as we’re dancing for God.  I think it is important for mature people to have beautiful tuneful songs and not just a repetitive disco beat which seems to have taken over the music industry now!  Using praise songs adds a beautiful Christian dimension.

Movement can improve older people’s fitness and balance – and it should be enjoyable, with nobody barking out orders – as can happen in non-Christian exercise classes!   It could also be used in fellowship groups.  Perhaps Christians could start a small exercise and movement group in their local area or suggest the idea to their church leader. All you need is a comfortable room, chairs, pom-pom shakers and joyful Christian praise songs!

It’s also a way to introduce not-yet-believers to encouraging Christian words sung to praise music.  It could also be used in Christian “Holiday at Home” days and in church groups, sheltered housing and in people’s own home.  Even a small group with just a handful of people could get together in someone’s home to do this.

It’s also Biblical as Psalm 149 & 150 tells people to praise God with music and dance.

Mrs Ann Wills, Middlesex, West London.

Find out more about The Christian Dance Fellowship of Britain.