WHEREAS, The Bible regards senior adults as persons deserving of honor and esteem (Leviticus 19:32; Proverbs 16:31); and
WHEREAS, Scripture affirms the sanctity of life for all persons, including senior adults, and regards all persons as bearers of God’s image (Genesis 1:26–28); and
WHEREAS, There are credible reports that the elderly who are extremely sick are routinely neglected—and in some instances die prematurely—under the national healthcare systems in other countries; and
WHEREAS, Some notable policy advocates have argued that healthcare for the elderly should be rationed in the United States; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Houston, Texas, June 11–12, 2013, express our opposition to any public policy which might function to discriminate against the elderly in their access to quality healthcare; and be it further
RESOLVED, That we encourage all Southern Baptists to honor our elders and seek ways to express our appreciation for senior adults; and be it finally
RESOLVED, That we encourage Southern Baptists to engage in ministry to senior adults, particularly those who are hospitalized, in nursing home facilities, and those who are homebound.