(Project for Seniors and Lifelong Ministry – Patron The Bishop of Edmonton)
PSALM is one of the charities generously supported by our church, having an ecumenical membership drawn from denominations in Greater London, and operating under the aegis of St. Pancras Church. John Willmer and I are currently trustees and members of the Executive Committee, elected by the Edmonton Area Council.
It’s specific aim is to address matters of interest and concern to people over 60 or approaching retirement and is open to anyone with an interest in ageing and spirituality. I became involved 7 years ago when I was due to retire and finding it difficult to get to grips with the practicalities of retirement (both as to pension and also the process of ‘letting go’ of professional life. A course on pension and other rights organised by PSALM with the help of local representatives from the Department of Work and Pensions gave me both the practical help and moral support I found myself needing.
PSALM’s strapline is ‘taking ageing and faith seriously’. There is a two pronged approach to this, first through workshops and events (open to both members and non-members) and through the provision of workshops, short courses and seminars to interested groups under the aegis of its development worker Ann Morisy who has a wealth of expertise in the field of social responsibility. A workshop can be tailored to the needs of a parish, for example PSALM has recently been invited to a’ round table ‘discussion with St. Mary’s Primrose Hill who wish to develop support for older people in their parish.
On Monday 11th April next, there is a day workshop (from 11am-3pm) on ‘Eating Well in Later Life’, then on Thursday 9th June the topic is ‘Contemplative Ageing – a way of being in later life’. Perhaps this will all sound rather dull and worthy, but in practice, the friendly and relaxed atmosphere enables participants to share their thoughts, fears, feelings and positive experiences and, for example, we had a singing workshop organised by Barbara Alden and one on Icons given by Rev.Ruth Tuschling (former curate at our church) which included tackling icon painting. Events take place at St. Pancras Church Hall, 1 Lancing Street, conveniently located just a short walk from Euston Station.
Further information on PSALM is available on its website www.PSALM.org.uk