Practical theology for aging
By: Derrel R. Watkins, editor.
Contributors: Watkins, Derrel R., 1935-
Publisher: Haworth Pastoral Press
Published: 2003
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 225
Subjects: Older Christians -- Religious life; Aging -- Religious aspects -- Christianity; Church work with older people
Other titles: Journal of religious gerontology.
Description: Through Scripture, studies, and the personal experiences of religious leaders and congregants, Practical Theology for Aging offers concepts for ministering to our older population. Each chapter looks at a different concern for the elderly and addresses it with the assurance that aging is part of God's work. From scientific models and case studies to passages from both the Old and New Testaments, this volume illuminates the power of faith in keeping the elderly whole and well. Practical Theology for Aging reveals several barriers to the spiritual wellness of our elders. These include society's stereotypical views of frailty and incompetence in older people, the lack of common support by communities of faith, and the dissatisfaction of the elderly with outdated, traditional answers to their concerns of aging, suffering, and death. Restated throughout the volume is the message that the journey into old age does not have to be filled with dread and fear but can be seen as a path to spiritual maturity. This book has practical suggestions that address God's purpose for aging; sexual health for senior citizens; the suffering and physical debilitation that sometimes accompany aging; afflictions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and how to minister to the unresponsive; the inclusion of spirituality in rehabilitation to heal the whole person after catastrophic illness or injury; and preaching to senior citizens as opposed to preaching to a younger congregation. --From publisher's description.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.
"...co-published simultaneously as Journal of religious gerontology, volume 15, numbers 1/2 2003."