A new mahjong group at Germantown United Methodist Church is creating an inviting space where adults of different ages can learn, play and build relationships.
The idea began during a meeting of the church’s Older Adult Council. Chesley Porteous, who serves as chair of the Lay Ministry Council and is active in women’s ministry, learned that a long-running bridge group was coming to an end. When council chair Luci Cromer mentioned that the church still had its bridge tables, both women immediately thought of mahjong.
The timing seemed especially appropriate. Mahjong was becoming increasingly popular in the community, and church members had previously expressed a desire for more multigenerational fellowship opportunities. Unlike many church programs organized around a particular age group, the mahjong gathering welcomes everyone.
The timing seemed especially appropriate. Mahjong was becoming increasingly popular in the community, and church members had previously expressed a desire for more multigenerational fellowship opportunities.
Participants have ranged from adults in their 30s to adults in their 80s. Although the group initially attracted mostly women, men have also participated. Members frequently play with different people, giving them opportunities to meet individuals they might not otherwise encounter during worship or other church activities.
The group began meeting once a month shortly after Easter. Interest grew so quickly that meetings increased to twice a month and then to every week. Attendance grew from approximately two tables of players to six tables, with new participants continuing to arrive.
Much of the group’s success comes from its flexible, welcoming structure. Participants do not need to register, pay a fee or commit to attending every week. Beginners are welcome, and experienced players help teach those who are learning.
Audio Interview with Chesley Porteous
Mahjong can be particularly valuable within older adult ministry because participants remain seated while playing, making it accessible to people with limited mobility. The game also engages the mind through strategy, pattern recognition, matching and decision-making. At the same time, the four-person tables encourage companionship, cooperation and a shared sense of purpose.
Porteous believes there is value simply in doing something together. Even when players are concentrating on the game rather than having lengthy conversations, they develop camaraderie by learning, helping one another and sharing the experience.
At Germantown United Methodist Church, mahjong has become more than a popular game. It is an accessible and joyful way for people across generations to gather, form relationships and strengthen the church community.
CertainAge.org is a resource of ENCORE Ministry Foundation. ENCORE Ministry Foundation provides training and support, resources, and networking opportunities to equip church leaders for intentional ministry by, with, and for older adults.