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As the baby-boom generation ages, it's challenging our churches, which must adapt to meet the spiritual and religious needs of this population segment. How's your congregation doing?

Time and resources

Esther Rusch says boomers can use them to overcome differences

Name: Esther Rusch

Age: 56

Esther Rusch, Cedarburg, Wis., says she hopes her generation will use its time and resources to overcome differences that divide the church.

Personal information: Member of Faith Lutheran Church, Cedarburg, Wis.; homemaker/synod anti-racism team co-convener.

How has your faith changed over the years?

I was raised in the Methodist church and as a youth questioned the need for organized religion. But I always felt that I was blessed by God’s grace. I became a Lutheran by marriage and find the teaching of justification by grace through faith resonates deeply within me. I’m one of those people who [theologian] Marcus Borg describes as “meeting Jesus again for the first time.”

At this time in your life, why is your faith important to you?

I can’t think of a single aspect of my life that isn’t informed by my faith. It’s central to who I am. I’ve learned to listen for God’s voice and to trust in the Spirit to guide me.

How is your generation affecting—or will it affect—the ELCA?

My generation has the ability to bring positive changes to the ELCA. Many of us are blessed with time and resources in abundance. It’s my hope that we’ll use them learn to live together in true Christian community.