The difference between multigenerational and intergenerational has been on my mind these past few weeks as I have begun my new life as a Director of Religious Education.  In the past I used the two as synonyms, as I imagine most folks out there.  But the more I ponder the two when thinking about our upcoming program year, some distinct differences have come clear in my mind.

I would argue that intergenerational is when there is one event that doesn’t take into account generational theory.  It’s one event that generally targeted towards adults that adults hope children are comfortable at.  It’s a one sized fits all service that folks hope appeals to different ages.

I would argue that multigenerational is when the event takes into account differences in generations and differences in development when being designed.  There are aspects of the greater event that appeal to different generations and different stages in life development.

For example, let’s look at a typical Sunday service.

An intergenerational service would be a standard Sunday service with the usual length sermon in the traditional format, but with maybe using words and terminology accessible to all ages and all ages are encouraged to attend.
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A multigenerational service would take generational differences and generational theory into the design of the service – maybe a theatrical piece for a portion of the service, maybe something more interactive and participatory, different ages being involved with the development and execution of the service.  Instead of one long sermon there are shorter homilies and readings.  Etc.

We need to move from intergenerational to multigenerational services, programs, events, media, leadership, you name it.  (And it looks like I’m not the only one thinking about this distinction, h/t to Phil!)

Something that this implies a need for is a solid understanding of generational theory, as true Lifespan Religious Education is by its very nature multigenerational.  At my Fellowship we have a newish Lifespan Religious Education Council, whom I will have read a book on generational theory in the church with me so we can better look at the theory behind true multigenerational work.

Lucky for us there, there are free resources out there for UUs on generational theory.  As a starting place, take a look at these webinars that CERG has up for free on their website. (It does need registration to actually view, but they are free.)