September 21 – November 1, 2026
The last third of life presents some of life's richest spiritual, theological and ethical challenges. The journey of aging passes through both stable periods and times of transition which include pressing questions related to identity, leaving a legacy, loss of relationships, role in family and community, and facing diminishment and mortality. A primary concern of the aging process is, “How will we live generatively into this fierce and liberating season of life?” This course will explore how congregations and other communities of faith can engage in conversations and practices that will allow them to actively nurture spiritual formation into older adulthood.
By the end of this course participants will be able to:
- Describe their own practice of ministry, particularly spiritual formation among older adults.
- Articulate key spiritual and ethical issues that elders typically face.
- Describe the transitions that mark and define older adult spiritual development.
- Learn practices that can enrich spiritual formation, including that of spiritual autobiography.
- Explore and apply strategies for spiritual growth in elders and in aging congregations.
- Share resources for spiritual growth of older adults.
The course will draw upon readings from Richard Rohr, Joan Chittister, and Fred Craddock. Participants taking the course for certificate credit will complete a final project.
Location
Online
Facilitator
Mary Anona Stoops has served congregations in Melbourne, Australia; Rochester, New York; Nashville, Tennessee; and Hastings, Nebraska, and is delighted to currently be serving at North Decatur Presbyterian Church in the realm of adult spiritual formation, with a particular eye toward the care and spiritual nurture of older adults. Mary Anona has also served as spiritual director and part of the leadership team for the Certificate in Contemplative Spiritual Direction program. Mary Anona loves exploring and adventure and is convinced that at any age the greatest adventure of all is the journey into the inner landscape of the soul.
Schedule
Asynchronous, with weekly meetings on Wednesdays from 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET.
Participants must be comfortable using technology, as this course is hosted online though the course site (Moodle).
Program Fee
The program fee is $265, which includes a $50 nonrefundable deposit.
An early bird discount of $30 is available until July 31, 2026.
All balances are due one month prior to your first session. Cancellations must be received at least two weeks before your first session to receive a refund of the program fee minus the deposit.
Additional Information
Please register with an address we can mail course materials to.
This course is one of the four core courses of the Certificate of Older Adult Ministry. Registration is open to everyone, even if you are not wanting to pursue the certificate. Completion of all assignments is required for credit for the certificate.
Contact
