Aging - A Review

Aging

by

Will Willimon

This is the second book I have read this Spring focusing on ministry to the senior saints in our churches. Dr. Willimon is a Bishop in the United Methodist Church and former Dean of the Chapel at Duke University. He presents a well throughout discussion of the role seniors play in the 21st century church. The book is both scholarly and readable - and clearly shows his appreciation for the elderly.

Whether the reader is directly working with an elderly population (as this reviewer has for the last 15+ years) or merely has them as a member of their congregation, the book is a must-read. It could be assigned reading for those ministering to seniors - whether just entering that age group or nearing death doorstep. It is a practical book including explaining the needs of the elderly at each stage of the aging process and practical tips on how to meet those needs.

I would recommend it sit on every pastor’s bookshelf (after being read) and in the library of every local church. Students studying social work would find this to be a supportive guide for those who are working with this population.
______________

This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

The Value of Wrinkles - A Review

The Value of Wrinkles 

by

Isabel Tom

Isabel Tom grew up with grandparents living right next door to her - literally, they shared a bedroom wall in the same house. Her chosen ministry while attending Houghton College was to serve the senior adults in her community by making weekly visits to their living facilities. Her first “real” job out of college was an opportunity to explore the various ways care was provided to the elderly (defined, for the sake of the book, to be those aged 65 and up). Now, 15 years later, she writes about her experiences, what she has learned, and what others can value when spending time with the elderly in our communities. Ms. Tom continues to work with the elderly even as she raises her own children.

The book is about ministering to those 65 and older. How to listen to them, how to learn from them, and how to value them. She allows the reader to appreciate those who are sometimes left out of modern western society and under-valued by a world that can quickly pass them by. The book is not a “how-to” book, but it is practical. It comes full of hints on how to begin conversations, how we (at any age) can empower them in age-appropriate ways, and encouraging the reader to learn from those who have lived life before us.

The book is a must-read for all those who will interact with their elders - whether on the job, in a faith community, or within our families. The book would be of value to teens trying to navigate their grandparents - whether they are physically present or living some distance away. The Value of Wrinkles will provide hints to youth leaders on ways that their charges can minister to and learn from those at the other end of life’s spectrum. Pastors will find new ways to interact with their aging congregations. Parents will find suggestions for encouraging their children to discover the lives of their grandparents and great-grandparents.

The bottom line is that “if you interact with the elderly, this book will support your contact with them.” It belongs on the shelves of public libraries, church libraries, and on the desk of ministry professionals.
______________
It should be noted that this book is written by a graduate of the nearby college supported by my denomination. This being said, I do not know or had contact with the author. This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

It Is Well With My Soul - A Review

It Is Well With My Soul

by

Shelly Beach

A Review

One of my favorite self-help books was written by M. Scott Peck.  I know that not all of my readers will agree with all that he has written - I don’t either.  But the first words I read by him still ring true, “Life is difficult.”  

Though Shelly Beach may not quote M. Scott Peck, her thesis is that what he wrote was true.  Using the difficult life she has experienced and the lives of others, she has written a devotional that focuses on the lessons that can be learned from the pain can come from life - whether it be health issues, family problems, or aging itself.  No one is removed from the pains of life - but we have the choice as to whether they will draw us closer to God or allow us to run from him.  A choice we each have to make.

As a spiritual leader for a small group of seniors, I am becoming increasingly aware of how people can be empowered or frightened by an unknown future.  It is my pleasure to walk with them as they seek to find their way in God’s world.  This book will help me and my friends in that journey.

______________

This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.