Bible Reflections for Older People January-April 2026
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Bible Reflections for Older People January-April 2026
Author
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Editor: Eley McAinsh
£5.75
A daily companion to keep by your side
Written by older people for older people, these reflections are designed to bring hope, assurance and sustenance, reminding the reader of the presence and love of God. Each issue contains 40 Bible reflections and prayer suggestions to use and revisit as often as is needed. In the central section, Debbie Thrower founder of BRF Ministries’ Anna Chaplaincy ministry offers interviews and ideas to encourage and inspire. Topics and contributors High places - Geoff Lowson Calling in later life - Sally Welch What did Jesus see? - Ro Willoughby In the midst of the night - John Rackley
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10 November 2025
| Title | Bible Reflections for Older People January-April 2026 |
| Author | Editor: Eley McAinsh |
| ISBN | |
| Description | Written by older people for older people, these reflections are designed to bring hope, assurance and sustenance, reminding the reader of the presence and love of God. Each issue contains 40 Bible reflections and prayer suggestions to use and revisit as often as is needed. In the central section, Debbie Thrower founder of BRF Ministries’ Anna Chaplaincy ministry offers interviews and ideas to encourage and inspire. Topics and contributors High places - Geoff Lowson Calling in later life - Sally Welch What did Jesus see? - Ro Willoughby In the midst of the night - John Rackley |
| Details |
|
Written by older people for older people, these reflections are designed to bring hope, assurance and sustenance, reminding the reader of the presence and love of God. Each issue contains 40 Bible reflections and prayer suggestions to use and revisit as often as is needed. In the central section, Debbie Thrower founder of BRF Ministries’ Anna Chaplaincy ministry offers interviews and ideas to encourage and inspire. Topics and contributors High places - Geoff Lowson Calling in later life - Sally Welch What did Jesus see? - Ro Willoughby In the midst of the night - John Rackley
Eley McAinsh is a freelance writer, editor and communications consultant with a background in religious broadcasting and research into contemporary spirituality. She has a long-standing interest in retreats and spiritual direction and a particular concern for the spiritual care of those living with dementia.
Related
{"id":2439827161188,"title":"Faithful Grandparents: Hope and love through the generations","handle":"faithful-grandparents-hope-and-love-through-the-generations","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere has never been a more important time to find meaningful and acceptable ways of passing on faith from one generation to the next. Part of this privilege and responsibility lies with grandparents who live authentic Christian lives. They can be the vital link between the gospel and the faith of a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFaithful Grandparents\u003c\/em\u003e is a visionary call to an older generation to take the initiative with courage and wisdom, humour and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"324\" width=\"216\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnitaCleverlyauthorpicPREFERRED_480x480.jpg?v=1676497069\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Spring 2020. Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is more than an element of truth in the adage, ‘You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ I was attracted to review this book because I am a grandparent with four grandchildren between the ages of 1 and 13. To be honest, I was expecting either a book which looked at the ideals of grandparenthood, where everything is hunky-dory and love abounds everywhere (a very creditable aim) or what to do (or not to do) to be the perfect grandparent. Being a realist, I wanted something between those two extremes, that was useful and practical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book looks at relationships between grandparents, children and grandchildren – warts and all. There is seriousness: for example, the acrimonious breakdown of a marriage and grandchildren denied contact with grandparents, contrasting with the grandmother whose favourite activity was to camp in the attic with her grandchildren under a blue sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is humour: the mere thought of the author playing on a trampoline with her grandchildren who ‘shrieked with delight, deliberately throwing me off balance as I hurtled around.’ This is an image which should remind all grandparents of the need to recognise their physical abilities are more restricted than those of their grandchildren!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book draws attention to the responsibility of grandparents to pass on Christian values and ethics, to live Christian lives and to impart the Gospel message to their grandchildren, to be a constant in a world of disbelief. As parents are often working full time, this gives a fantastic opportunity to influence the lives of children for the good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-researched, well-written book, full of wisdom, practical advice and helpful hints, balanced with biblical references and relevant quotes from people such as CS Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Timothy Keller and many others including Jo Swinney.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany may consider the book a bit of a hotch-potch or disjointed, but that is part of its charm, and a way to encourage readers to read more which they reflect on their own relationships with their grandchildren. Well worth reading!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.09.19. Review by Dennis Richards \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis entertaining and challenging volume is written by a Christian grandparent for other grandparents. Its purpose is clearly defined. It is primarily intended to help grandparents who wish to hand on the baton of faith to a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is unashamedly biblical, and the writer freely acknowledges her Evangelical roots. But do not be misled. Anita Cleverly has lived a rich and interesting life. There is an avowedly ecumenical flavour to her life’s history, and one is left very much with the impression that her story still has chapters to be written.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf her 35 years in church ministry, in various guises, ten of them were spent in inner-city Paris, and it shows. She has clearly come under the influence of some great Catholic theologians, and speaks warmly of her Jesuit friends in Oxford. As she says, ‘My own church history has taken me through “Label Land”.’ She finds herself increasingly exploring the contemplative tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost important in a volume of this nature, the author is very aware of the speed of change in contemporary culture. The internet has changed everything. Individualism and relativism are today fundamental to the teenagers’ creed. She is well aware that grandparents today may face the prospect of a blended family, or a gay marriage and transgender discussion. She is very sure that ‘unconditional love’ defines what should be ‘on the tin’ for Christian grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven the vocabulary has changed, as I know to my cost. Writing this review as a grandfather of six, I find myself being mocked, lost in bewilderment, and, at times, genuinely scared that I’ve totally lost the plot. Pathetically trying to join in a game of football, I am exhorted to ‘Stop flexing, Grandad!’ Far from being worried about my physical welfare, they are actually telling me to stop showing off. Blank incomprehension on my part. Hilarity all round on theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author’s predicament was even worse. She climbed on the grandchildren’s trampoline. Bad mistake. All of which tells you that there is plenty to make you smile in her account of her own experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest of all, it is a volume that makes you think. What kind of grandparent am I? Formal? Fun-seeker? Surrogate parent? Reservoir of family wisdom? Distant? It is also reassuring. Some things haven’t changed. The definitions for example. Grandparent: so easy to operate, even a child can do it. Grandparent: breaks most of the rules and loves every second of it. I can live with that. Thanks Anita.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDennis Richards is a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eevangelicals now October 2019. Review by Val Archer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven the seismic cultural, moral, sexual and social upheaval in Britain today, the author’s call to the older generation of Christians to model courage, wisdom, faith and prayer is both timely and vital – not least in passing on the ‘faith once delivered’ to children generally – and one’s grandchildren especially. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly has a lifetime of experience as a Christian mother and grandmother and in family ministry, which she ransacks to great effect. She writes with a light touch, interweaving gospel truths and scriptural wisdom with a sharp understanding of the complex challenges facing Christian parents today. All in all it makes for both an enjoyable and stimulating read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the opening insightful chapter on ‘21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e Century Grandparents’, she quotes \u003cem\u003eThe Daily Telegraph \u003c\/em\u003ecolumnist Allison Pearson, who has discovered that ‘two thirds of the nation’s grandparents – that’s 5 million people – now provide regular childcare for their grandchildren’. The contact time with grandchildren in Britain today is at a very different level than was generally the case with previous generations. After the parent-child relationship, grandparents usually provide the second most important emotional influence in a child’s life. The opportunity and need is immense. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 11 chapters which follow, the whole landscape of grandparenting is explored and practical biblical wisdom and advice brought to bear on a whole raft of issues – the art of listening, storytelling the family history, seeking to reach the heart of the child with the gospel, the vital place and role of the church and church family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo chapters, one ‘A Grandparent’s Creed’ and the other ‘A Grandparent’s Prayers’, are outstanding and worth buying the book for. Taking the Apostles’ Creed and reflecting and meditating on each phrase in the context of the challenges facing children today in our oft-pernicious culture, is so helpful. Praying for and with grandchildren takes the focus to that which any Christian parent of grandparent wants for their offspring – that they grow to love and serve Christ all their days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing some of the cultural, social and sexual changes in a chapter entitled ‘Shifting Tectonic Plates’ brings a rootedness and contemporary awareness that is much needed in Christian thinking today. Pointing out that it is not all ‘gloom and doom’, that many of the changes in society have been for the good, is a welcome corrective that recognises ‘common grace’ has not yet left town! At the same time the author goes on to provide a thoughtful critique of the blatantly anti-God agenda that is so prevalent. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe light Charismatic influences and context from which the author writes mean that on occasion there are one or two things those in other traditions might not always go along with, or perhaps express in different ways. However, to major on these would be to lose the great benefit and blessing this delightful book provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Val Archer: conference speaker, mother of four and grandmother of seven. Member of both The King’s Church Chessington and The Globe Church London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is for Christian grandparents. Anita Cleverly writes of her own journey and approach as a grandparent, and covers the responsibilities of the grandparent’s role in the twenty-first century, together with the opportunities we have, and the limitations we are subject to. The chapters on sensitive listening, the wonder of the created world, Bible stories and children’s questions are well covered. There is an encouraging view of the church today, and valuable advice regarding the changing landscape of culture and today’s technology. The chapter I enjoyed most was the one on praying for and with our grandchildren. Anita Cleverly has written a book of authentic Christian wisdom and grace, sprinkled with real comments from real people, and pieces of practical advice, for ourselves as well as for our families. She writes with feeling about the difficulties of being a faithful grandparent as well as the joys. I commend it to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. Review by Ruth Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a gem. I read it quickly, because it is hard to put down, and I shall immediately read it again more slowly, to savour the wisdom that’s on every page. The title tells you what it’s about: encouragement for grandparents to share their faith with their grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly is an experienced spiritual director and bereavement counsellor. Her sensitivity undergirds the wise words in every chapter. Never does she forget that we have our grandchildren on loan, and that discipline and criticism, however gently applied, are not our lot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two chapters of the book survey what grandparenting really is, in our time and culture, recognising the different situations that many grandparents find themselves in. Many grandparents are left with very limited opportunities to build the relationship which permit the sharing of faith stories. There are useful suggestions for grandparents who have little contact with their grandchildren to make the most of the possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral chapters help us to identify the essentials of our own faith, and ways in which they could be put over. One uses the Apostles’ Creed to help us focus. There are chapters on the Church and on the problems facing people of faith in an increasingly secular world, as well as one on the contentious issues facing Christians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubjects like human sexuality are dealt with gently and sensitively. We are encouraged never to pontificate but to accept our grandchildren’s choices with grace and love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is full apposite quotations from the bible and other Christian writers. It is very easy to read, the writer having the wonderful gift of being able to speak apparently straight to the individual reader. There are anecdotes galore, both funny and sad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am genuinely looking forward to reading this a second time, and wholeheartedly commend it to any grandparent. Your grandchildren will be much blessed through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Allen is \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ea retired United Reformed minister based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:33+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:35+00:00","vendor":"Anita Cleverly","type":"Paperback","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","KCLC","Kindle","Parenting","Retired and inspired"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770212933732,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466617","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Faithful Grandparents: Hope and love through the generations - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":214,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466617","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466617-l.jpg?v=1549043117","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/38_cc8654b3-80a7-49fc-8222-b05387e9e603.png?v=1734095696"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466617-l.jpg?v=1549043117","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238881820811,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466617-l.jpg?v=1549043117"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466617-l.jpg?v=1549043117","width":426},{"alt":null,"id":63560966701436,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/38_cc8654b3-80a7-49fc-8222-b05387e9e603.png?v=1734095696"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/38_cc8654b3-80a7-49fc-8222-b05387e9e603.png?v=1734095696","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThere has never been a more important time to find meaningful and acceptable ways of passing on faith from one generation to the next. Part of this privilege and responsibility lies with grandparents who live authentic Christian lives. They can be the vital link between the gospel and the faith of a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFaithful Grandparents\u003c\/em\u003e is a visionary call to an older generation to take the initiative with courage and wisdom, humour and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"324\" width=\"216\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnitaCleverlyauthorpicPREFERRED_480x480.jpg?v=1676497069\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Spring 2020. Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is more than an element of truth in the adage, ‘You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ I was attracted to review this book because I am a grandparent with four grandchildren between the ages of 1 and 13. To be honest, I was expecting either a book which looked at the ideals of grandparenthood, where everything is hunky-dory and love abounds everywhere (a very creditable aim) or what to do (or not to do) to be the perfect grandparent. Being a realist, I wanted something between those two extremes, that was useful and practical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book looks at relationships between grandparents, children and grandchildren – warts and all. There is seriousness: for example, the acrimonious breakdown of a marriage and grandchildren denied contact with grandparents, contrasting with the grandmother whose favourite activity was to camp in the attic with her grandchildren under a blue sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is humour: the mere thought of the author playing on a trampoline with her grandchildren who ‘shrieked with delight, deliberately throwing me off balance as I hurtled around.’ This is an image which should remind all grandparents of the need to recognise their physical abilities are more restricted than those of their grandchildren!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book draws attention to the responsibility of grandparents to pass on Christian values and ethics, to live Christian lives and to impart the Gospel message to their grandchildren, to be a constant in a world of disbelief. As parents are often working full time, this gives a fantastic opportunity to influence the lives of children for the good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-researched, well-written book, full of wisdom, practical advice and helpful hints, balanced with biblical references and relevant quotes from people such as CS Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Timothy Keller and many others including Jo Swinney.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany may consider the book a bit of a hotch-potch or disjointed, but that is part of its charm, and a way to encourage readers to read more which they reflect on their own relationships with their grandchildren. Well worth reading!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.09.19. Review by Dennis Richards \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis entertaining and challenging volume is written by a Christian grandparent for other grandparents. Its purpose is clearly defined. It is primarily intended to help grandparents who wish to hand on the baton of faith to a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is unashamedly biblical, and the writer freely acknowledges her Evangelical roots. But do not be misled. Anita Cleverly has lived a rich and interesting life. There is an avowedly ecumenical flavour to her life’s history, and one is left very much with the impression that her story still has chapters to be written.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf her 35 years in church ministry, in various guises, ten of them were spent in inner-city Paris, and it shows. She has clearly come under the influence of some great Catholic theologians, and speaks warmly of her Jesuit friends in Oxford. As she says, ‘My own church history has taken me through “Label Land”.’ She finds herself increasingly exploring the contemplative tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost important in a volume of this nature, the author is very aware of the speed of change in contemporary culture. The internet has changed everything. Individualism and relativism are today fundamental to the teenagers’ creed. She is well aware that grandparents today may face the prospect of a blended family, or a gay marriage and transgender discussion. She is very sure that ‘unconditional love’ defines what should be ‘on the tin’ for Christian grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven the vocabulary has changed, as I know to my cost. Writing this review as a grandfather of six, I find myself being mocked, lost in bewilderment, and, at times, genuinely scared that I’ve totally lost the plot. Pathetically trying to join in a game of football, I am exhorted to ‘Stop flexing, Grandad!’ Far from being worried about my physical welfare, they are actually telling me to stop showing off. Blank incomprehension on my part. Hilarity all round on theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author’s predicament was even worse. She climbed on the grandchildren’s trampoline. Bad mistake. All of which tells you that there is plenty to make you smile in her account of her own experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest of all, it is a volume that makes you think. What kind of grandparent am I? Formal? Fun-seeker? Surrogate parent? Reservoir of family wisdom? Distant? It is also reassuring. Some things haven’t changed. The definitions for example. Grandparent: so easy to operate, even a child can do it. Grandparent: breaks most of the rules and loves every second of it. I can live with that. Thanks Anita.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDennis Richards is a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eevangelicals now October 2019. Review by Val Archer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven the seismic cultural, moral, sexual and social upheaval in Britain today, the author’s call to the older generation of Christians to model courage, wisdom, faith and prayer is both timely and vital – not least in passing on the ‘faith once delivered’ to children generally – and one’s grandchildren especially. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly has a lifetime of experience as a Christian mother and grandmother and in family ministry, which she ransacks to great effect. She writes with a light touch, interweaving gospel truths and scriptural wisdom with a sharp understanding of the complex challenges facing Christian parents today. All in all it makes for both an enjoyable and stimulating read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the opening insightful chapter on ‘21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e Century Grandparents’, she quotes \u003cem\u003eThe Daily Telegraph \u003c\/em\u003ecolumnist Allison Pearson, who has discovered that ‘two thirds of the nation’s grandparents – that’s 5 million people – now provide regular childcare for their grandchildren’. The contact time with grandchildren in Britain today is at a very different level than was generally the case with previous generations. After the parent-child relationship, grandparents usually provide the second most important emotional influence in a child’s life. The opportunity and need is immense. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 11 chapters which follow, the whole landscape of grandparenting is explored and practical biblical wisdom and advice brought to bear on a whole raft of issues – the art of listening, storytelling the family history, seeking to reach the heart of the child with the gospel, the vital place and role of the church and church family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo chapters, one ‘A Grandparent’s Creed’ and the other ‘A Grandparent’s Prayers’, are outstanding and worth buying the book for. Taking the Apostles’ Creed and reflecting and meditating on each phrase in the context of the challenges facing children today in our oft-pernicious culture, is so helpful. Praying for and with grandchildren takes the focus to that which any Christian parent of grandparent wants for their offspring – that they grow to love and serve Christ all their days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing some of the cultural, social and sexual changes in a chapter entitled ‘Shifting Tectonic Plates’ brings a rootedness and contemporary awareness that is much needed in Christian thinking today. Pointing out that it is not all ‘gloom and doom’, that many of the changes in society have been for the good, is a welcome corrective that recognises ‘common grace’ has not yet left town! At the same time the author goes on to provide a thoughtful critique of the blatantly anti-God agenda that is so prevalent. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe light Charismatic influences and context from which the author writes mean that on occasion there are one or two things those in other traditions might not always go along with, or perhaps express in different ways. However, to major on these would be to lose the great benefit and blessing this delightful book provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Val Archer: conference speaker, mother of four and grandmother of seven. Member of both The King’s Church Chessington and The Globe Church London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is for Christian grandparents. Anita Cleverly writes of her own journey and approach as a grandparent, and covers the responsibilities of the grandparent’s role in the twenty-first century, together with the opportunities we have, and the limitations we are subject to. The chapters on sensitive listening, the wonder of the created world, Bible stories and children’s questions are well covered. There is an encouraging view of the church today, and valuable advice regarding the changing landscape of culture and today’s technology. The chapter I enjoyed most was the one on praying for and with our grandchildren. Anita Cleverly has written a book of authentic Christian wisdom and grace, sprinkled with real comments from real people, and pieces of practical advice, for ourselves as well as for our families. She writes with feeling about the difficulties of being a faithful grandparent as well as the joys. I commend it to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. Review by Ruth Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a gem. I read it quickly, because it is hard to put down, and I shall immediately read it again more slowly, to savour the wisdom that’s on every page. The title tells you what it’s about: encouragement for grandparents to share their faith with their grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly is an experienced spiritual director and bereavement counsellor. Her sensitivity undergirds the wise words in every chapter. Never does she forget that we have our grandchildren on loan, and that discipline and criticism, however gently applied, are not our lot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two chapters of the book survey what grandparenting really is, in our time and culture, recognising the different situations that many grandparents find themselves in. Many grandparents are left with very limited opportunities to build the relationship which permit the sharing of faith stories. There are useful suggestions for grandparents who have little contact with their grandchildren to make the most of the possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral chapters help us to identify the essentials of our own faith, and ways in which they could be put over. One uses the Apostles’ Creed to help us focus. There are chapters on the Church and on the problems facing people of faith in an increasingly secular world, as well as one on the contentious issues facing Christians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubjects like human sexuality are dealt with gently and sensitively. We are encouraged never to pontificate but to accept our grandchildren’s choices with grace and love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is full apposite quotations from the bible and other Christian writers. It is very easy to read, the writer having the wonderful gift of being able to speak apparently straight to the individual reader. There are anecdotes galore, both funny and sad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am genuinely looking forward to reading this a second time, and wholeheartedly commend it to any grandparent. Your grandchildren will be much blessed through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Allen is \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ea retired United Reformed minister based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Faithful Grandparents: Hope and love through the generations
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{"id":2439790723172,"title":"Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly","handle":"come-let-us-age-an-invitation-to-grow-old-boldly","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this unique book, Wanda Nash, a well-established writer on spirituality in her late seventies, reflects on growing old with faith and a positive spirit. This compelling invitation to grow old boldly - full of her own experiences and insights - includes Wanda's reflection on her encounter later in life with terminal cancer, and her thoughts on coping with the daily challenges of living a Christian life in her illness and in ageing. Demonstrating a profound sense of the value and purposefulness of 'old age', the author's indomitable spirit is matched only by her fresh vision of the love of God in Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us age! An invitation to grow old boldly\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 The preliminary scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 What is old age for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Would God like an empty space which only he can refill?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 How on earth can we do this?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Some of the consequences of being old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Some conclusions about being very old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us play!\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 God laughing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The magnitude of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Alongside the pain and the hurt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Feeling awful and playing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Jesus and optimism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Jesus and his needs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 Being pierced, but still being welcoming\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtracts from Wanda Nash's journals\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 Being old and ill: where is God?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 Awareness of God's presence in illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Using illness: ministry through illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17 Coping with illness in order to use it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 The best is yet to come\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19 Finale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nUntil her death in June 2015, Wanda Nash was an author and speaker on a range of subjects including stress and spirituality. Having been the UK Chair of the International Stress Management Association, she authored a number of significant books, including, Christ, Stress and Glory (1997), At Ease with Stress (1998), Come, Let us Play! (1999), Simple Tools for Stillness (2005) and Silence as a Meeting Place (2010).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book - less than 100 pages - but the subject matter is huge: how to approach ageing and dying gracefully and with joy. Wanda Nash, a well-known writer on stillness and contemplation, began this book in her late 70s. While she was writing it she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book meets the subjects of ageing and death head on; both are to be embraced. Wanda doesn't duck the problems of getting old but looks at them differently, suggesting that if we can no longer rush about filling our days with doing then we must make the most of being. That being takes place in the presence of a God who helps us to not only make sense of what is happening but to use it to minister to others. Ageing is to be embraced and celebrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book like this could be very worthy and dull but instead it is suffused with a sense of fun and enjoyment of life. Even at the worst moments she sees an opportunity to play. Wanda is convinced of the reality of life after death and is 'looking forward to the other side', believing, like Julian of Norwich, that: 'All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring, challenging but comforting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:15+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:17+00:00","vendor":"Wanda Nash","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769629335652,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465580","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436808323172,"product_id":2439790723172,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:17+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:42+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142","variant_ids":[21769629335652]},"available":true,"name":"Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":699,"weight":112,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465580","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238879264907,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/51_d05e23d0-a3f8-44a9-9dea-171823b7cb32.png?v=1734095697"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879264907,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465580-l.jpg?v=1549043142","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63560966963580,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/51_d05e23d0-a3f8-44a9-9dea-171823b7cb32.png?v=1734095697"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/51_d05e23d0-a3f8-44a9-9dea-171823b7cb32.png?v=1734095697","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this unique book, Wanda Nash, a well-established writer on spirituality in her late seventies, reflects on growing old with faith and a positive spirit. This compelling invitation to grow old boldly - full of her own experiences and insights - includes Wanda's reflection on her encounter later in life with terminal cancer, and her thoughts on coping with the daily challenges of living a Christian life in her illness and in ageing. Demonstrating a profound sense of the value and purposefulness of 'old age', the author's indomitable spirit is matched only by her fresh vision of the love of God in Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us age! An invitation to grow old boldly\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 The preliminary scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 What is old age for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Would God like an empty space which only he can refill?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 How on earth can we do this?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Some of the consequences of being old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Some conclusions about being very old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us play!\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 God laughing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The magnitude of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Alongside the pain and the hurt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Feeling awful and playing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Jesus and optimism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Jesus and his needs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 Being pierced, but still being welcoming\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtracts from Wanda Nash's journals\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 Being old and ill: where is God?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 Awareness of God's presence in illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Using illness: ministry through illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17 Coping with illness in order to use it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 The best is yet to come\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19 Finale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nUntil her death in June 2015, Wanda Nash was an author and speaker on a range of subjects including stress and spirituality. Having been the UK Chair of the International Stress Management Association, she authored a number of significant books, including, Christ, Stress and Glory (1997), At Ease with Stress (1998), Come, Let us Play! (1999), Simple Tools for Stillness (2005) and Silence as a Meeting Place (2010).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book - less than 100 pages - but the subject matter is huge: how to approach ageing and dying gracefully and with joy. Wanda Nash, a well-known writer on stillness and contemplation, began this book in her late 70s. While she was writing it she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book meets the subjects of ageing and death head on; both are to be embraced. Wanda doesn't duck the problems of getting old but looks at them differently, suggesting that if we can no longer rush about filling our days with doing then we must make the most of being. That being takes place in the presence of a God who helps us to not only make sense of what is happening but to use it to minister to others. Ageing is to be embraced and celebrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book like this could be very worthy and dull but instead it is suffused with a sense of fun and enjoyment of life. Even at the worst moments she sees an opportunity to play. Wanda is convinced of the reality of life after death and is 'looking forward to the other side', believing, like Julian of Norwich, that: 'All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring, challenging but comforting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly
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{"id":2439827619940,"title":"Retired and Inspired: Making the most of our latter years","handle":"retired-and-inspired-making-the-most-of-our-latter-years","description":"\u003cp\u003eAttitudes to retirement vary, and in this book Wendy Billington draws on her pastoral skills and life experience to ask the question: what is a Christian view of retirement? If we believe that life is a gift from God, should we not be viewing retirement as part of an integrated whole and see our latter years as part of God's plan? This book is intended for all to read: individuals preparing for retirement and in their retirement years as well as their families, friends, befrienders, carers and professionals. Written in two sections, 'Uprooting the weeds' and 'Sowing the seeds', it includes questions for group discussion at the end of each chapter, followed by a meditative thought for the day and a closing prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWendy Billington is Pastoral Assistant Emeritus in the diocese of Rochester, having served many years as a key pastoral worker at St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks. She now uses her wide experience, skills and knowledge leading training courses and in one-to-one pastoral support. She is trustee of Sevenoaks Counselling Service and the author of Growing a Caring Church: Practical guidelines for pastoral care (BRF, 2010) and I'm Fine: Removing masks and growing into wholeness (BRF, 2013).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times review 20.9.19 Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRetirement may or may not be planned. But, sooner or later, we are likely to face losses of what we used to do and of people who are important to us. Wendy Billington draws on her pastoral experience to explore both the challenges and the opportunities of these years. She illustrates this through the story of a fictional ‘Jim’ which runs alongside other reflections in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two sections: ‘Clearing the Weeds’, which addresses common difficulties, and ‘Sowing the Seeds’, which gives a range of possibilities. ‘Clearing the Weeds’ includes facing loss, facing our fears, and healing the memories as the changes of later years may bring to the surface wounds thought to be long past. She recognises that body, mind, emotions and spirit all play a part in living these years well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second section is the book’s core. In it, Billington argues that retired people can still offer much, in particular through learning to listen well. She encourages looking for opportunities and recognising gifts, especially gifts that may have been in the background until now. She is also realistic about the continuing changes that come with older age. Her chapter on relationships is almost at the end. I was sorry it came so late: from my own experience, relationships become increasingly important as other aspects of life diminish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, each chapter ends with questions for group discussion, questions for personal reflection, and a thought for the day on a fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, and so on). I would recommend discussion on the book’s themes, as I found that I had quite a few questions about how they would work out in other contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNevertheless, Billington offers a useful overview of many aspects of later life, giving a good place to start reflecting and talking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr Caroline Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe title and sub-title of this book should alert anyone on the verge of retirement. As life expectancy increases there may be decades rather than years of life left to live and Christians need inspiration in order to use them well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book starts by facing the realities that accompany our getting older: retirement is not always a series of golden days. Early chapters outline obstacles that may have to be faced and difficult issues are not side-stepped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurprisingly, bereavement is faced first; it may come suddenly or with time for preparation, but either way it has a huge impact and brings the need for major rethinking of so much previously taken for granted. Important questions are raised on the understanding that they should be addressed now rather than pushed under the carpet as not being necessary ‘just yet’. These difficult topics are discussed sensitively and practically with down to earth suggestions for dealing with them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother chapter outlines the fears that often arise in retirement: anxiety about ill-health, loss of independence and concerns about financial security. Any or all of these may become burdensome and lead into a spiral of depression or withdrawal. With more time to dwell on them, memories of difficult past life events may become intrusive and burdensome. All these and other potential problems are discussed with helpful proposals and frequent mention of the part a supportive church can play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoving on to more positive aspects there are chapters on the importance of finding new roles with opportunities for service as well as the chance to develop talents long forgotten or never previously recognised. Learning to listen in order to become better able to support others could be a steppingstone to new worlds and the gift of time can lead to the satisfaction of building better relationships with family and friends. One minor omission is any discussion of the major contribution to childcare made by many of today’s grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough all these varying chapters run some consistent threads. As we read, we open up little episodes in the life of ‘Jim’, the author’s creation based on long experience and close observation. Struggling with the loss of his wife when we first meet him, Jim is gradually helped towards a better life and frame of mind as the book progresses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author often shares relevant episodes from her own life story to illustrate particular points. The importance of the Christian community is a constant theme, sometimes as an opportunity for service, sometimes as a source of support and comfort. The need for sensitivity is stressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter includes a few short questions for reflection and discussion so the book could be used by groups as well as individuals. Each chapter ends with a ‘Thought for the Day’ based on one of the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book that needs to be read and acted upon, but one warning: do not expect your pastor or vicar to show the same degree of self-sacrifice as Jim’s does!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Dr Caroline Berry\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePremier Christianity Magazine, August 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOut of her vast experience as a counsellor and pastoral worker, Wendy Billington has created the character of Jim to be the connecting thread between the chapters of this book. He is composed of the problems, fears and anxieties of all of us as we grow older. The author does not seek to give glib answers to issues such as self-doubt or the loss of loved ones, but rather deals with them in practical ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overarching theme of this book is: ‘Sowing seeds and producing fruit that will last in our latter years.’ It could be a great help to those preparing for retirement, those already retired and also for their friends, relatives or carers. Each chapter has questions for group discussion and other material for personal reflection. Firmly based in scripture and a Christian view of the value of every life, this book is well worth reading and sharing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jean Watson, Sevenoaks Counselling Newsletter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver a cuppa in Waitrose I asked Wendy why she wrote this book. She replied that she enjoyed writing (she has already written two other books for BRF) and wanted to say something from her heart for retirees and those coming up to retirement age, as well as for their friends and families, carers and other professionals involved with older people.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe book reflects Wendy’s chatty style and friendly personality, her strong Christian faith, her personal experiences and her work in pastoral care.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe book looks attractive inside and out and the contents are well organised and easy to read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe first main section – clearing the weeds – gives practical suggestions and spiritual advice about processing any past issues and memories which might sabotage future wellbeing and growth which is the focus of the second section. Again practical suggestions and spiritual advice go hand in hand.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe passionate message of the message of the book is that older people have a huge amount to offer and should not be written off or sidelined but encouraged to go on contributing, learning and growing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere are many illustrations from life in the book and also a fictional character called Jim who pops up throughout and who is helped to process some very traumatic experiences and become a positive, contributing person again. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe biblical content would make the book more immediately attractive to people with some degree of Christian faith and knowledge, but the practical ideas and psychological insights could be helpful in their own right to others as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Angus MacLeay, Rector St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWendy is a much valued member of St Nicholas Sevenoaks. For many years she served as a Pastoral Assistant and out of that experience she has developed all sorts of pastoral insights. This particular book should be a source of much encouragement to those in their retirement years. Through setting out a helpful scenario which is then developed in each chapter she is able to help us take note of a number of the key issues which we are likely to face during retirement. Each chapter is appropriately linked with a different aspect of the fruit of the Spirit highlighting the attractive nature of living wholeheartedly for Christ right to the end of our days. I trust as this book is read many will be helped in navigating their way through their latter years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Angus MacLeay, Rector St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:35+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:36+00:00","vendor":"Wendy Billington","type":"Paperback","tags":["Apr-19","KCLC","Kindle","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770218504292,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467201","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7437043892324,"product_id":2439827619940,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:36+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:17+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117","variant_ids":[21770218504292]},"available":true,"name":"Retired and Inspired: Making the most of our latter years - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467201","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238881853579,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238881853579,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857467201-l.jpg?v=1549043117","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eAttitudes to retirement vary, and in this book Wendy Billington draws on her pastoral skills and life experience to ask the question: what is a Christian view of retirement? If we believe that life is a gift from God, should we not be viewing retirement as part of an integrated whole and see our latter years as part of God's plan? This book is intended for all to read: individuals preparing for retirement and in their retirement years as well as their families, friends, befrienders, carers and professionals. Written in two sections, 'Uprooting the weeds' and 'Sowing the seeds', it includes questions for group discussion at the end of each chapter, followed by a meditative thought for the day and a closing prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWendy Billington is Pastoral Assistant Emeritus in the diocese of Rochester, having served many years as a key pastoral worker at St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks. She now uses her wide experience, skills and knowledge leading training courses and in one-to-one pastoral support. She is trustee of Sevenoaks Counselling Service and the author of Growing a Caring Church: Practical guidelines for pastoral care (BRF, 2010) and I'm Fine: Removing masks and growing into wholeness (BRF, 2013).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times review 20.9.19 Review by Anne Spalding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRetirement may or may not be planned. But, sooner or later, we are likely to face losses of what we used to do and of people who are important to us. Wendy Billington draws on her pastoral experience to explore both the challenges and the opportunities of these years. She illustrates this through the story of a fictional ‘Jim’ which runs alongside other reflections in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two sections: ‘Clearing the Weeds’, which addresses common difficulties, and ‘Sowing the Seeds’, which gives a range of possibilities. ‘Clearing the Weeds’ includes facing loss, facing our fears, and healing the memories as the changes of later years may bring to the surface wounds thought to be long past. She recognises that body, mind, emotions and spirit all play a part in living these years well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second section is the book’s core. In it, Billington argues that retired people can still offer much, in particular through learning to listen well. She encourages looking for opportunities and recognising gifts, especially gifts that may have been in the background until now. She is also realistic about the continuing changes that come with older age. Her chapter on relationships is almost at the end. I was sorry it came so late: from my own experience, relationships become increasingly important as other aspects of life diminish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelpfully, each chapter ends with questions for group discussion, questions for personal reflection, and a thought for the day on a fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, and so on). I would recommend discussion on the book’s themes, as I found that I had quite a few questions about how they would work out in other contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNevertheless, Billington offers a useful overview of many aspects of later life, giving a good place to start reflecting and talking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Anne Spalding is a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, and lives in Suffolk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr Caroline Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe title and sub-title of this book should alert anyone on the verge of retirement. As life expectancy increases there may be decades rather than years of life left to live and Christians need inspiration in order to use them well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book starts by facing the realities that accompany our getting older: retirement is not always a series of golden days. Early chapters outline obstacles that may have to be faced and difficult issues are not side-stepped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurprisingly, bereavement is faced first; it may come suddenly or with time for preparation, but either way it has a huge impact and brings the need for major rethinking of so much previously taken for granted. Important questions are raised on the understanding that they should be addressed now rather than pushed under the carpet as not being necessary ‘just yet’. These difficult topics are discussed sensitively and practically with down to earth suggestions for dealing with them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother chapter outlines the fears that often arise in retirement: anxiety about ill-health, loss of independence and concerns about financial security. Any or all of these may become burdensome and lead into a spiral of depression or withdrawal. With more time to dwell on them, memories of difficult past life events may become intrusive and burdensome. All these and other potential problems are discussed with helpful proposals and frequent mention of the part a supportive church can play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoving on to more positive aspects there are chapters on the importance of finding new roles with opportunities for service as well as the chance to develop talents long forgotten or never previously recognised. Learning to listen in order to become better able to support others could be a steppingstone to new worlds and the gift of time can lead to the satisfaction of building better relationships with family and friends. One minor omission is any discussion of the major contribution to childcare made by many of today’s grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough all these varying chapters run some consistent threads. As we read, we open up little episodes in the life of ‘Jim’, the author’s creation based on long experience and close observation. Struggling with the loss of his wife when we first meet him, Jim is gradually helped towards a better life and frame of mind as the book progresses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author often shares relevant episodes from her own life story to illustrate particular points. The importance of the Christian community is a constant theme, sometimes as an opportunity for service, sometimes as a source of support and comfort. The need for sensitivity is stressed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter includes a few short questions for reflection and discussion so the book could be used by groups as well as individuals. Each chapter ends with a ‘Thought for the Day’ based on one of the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book that needs to be read and acted upon, but one warning: do not expect your pastor or vicar to show the same degree of self-sacrifice as Jim’s does!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Dr Caroline Berry\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePremier Christianity Magazine, August 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOut of her vast experience as a counsellor and pastoral worker, Wendy Billington has created the character of Jim to be the connecting thread between the chapters of this book. He is composed of the problems, fears and anxieties of all of us as we grow older. The author does not seek to give glib answers to issues such as self-doubt or the loss of loved ones, but rather deals with them in practical ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overarching theme of this book is: ‘Sowing seeds and producing fruit that will last in our latter years.’ It could be a great help to those preparing for retirement, those already retired and also for their friends, relatives or carers. Each chapter has questions for group discussion and other material for personal reflection. Firmly based in scripture and a Christian view of the value of every life, this book is well worth reading and sharing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jean Watson, Sevenoaks Counselling Newsletter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver a cuppa in Waitrose I asked Wendy why she wrote this book. She replied that she enjoyed writing (she has already written two other books for BRF) and wanted to say something from her heart for retirees and those coming up to retirement age, as well as for their friends and families, carers and other professionals involved with older people.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe book reflects Wendy’s chatty style and friendly personality, her strong Christian faith, her personal experiences and her work in pastoral care.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe book looks attractive inside and out and the contents are well organised and easy to read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe first main section – clearing the weeds – gives practical suggestions and spiritual advice about processing any past issues and memories which might sabotage future wellbeing and growth which is the focus of the second section. Again practical suggestions and spiritual advice go hand in hand.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe passionate message of the message of the book is that older people have a huge amount to offer and should not be written off or sidelined but encouraged to go on contributing, learning and growing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere are many illustrations from life in the book and also a fictional character called Jim who pops up throughout and who is helped to process some very traumatic experiences and become a positive, contributing person again. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe biblical content would make the book more immediately attractive to people with some degree of Christian faith and knowledge, but the practical ideas and psychological insights could be helpful in their own right to others as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Angus MacLeay, Rector St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWendy is a much valued member of St Nicholas Sevenoaks. For many years she served as a Pastoral Assistant and out of that experience she has developed all sorts of pastoral insights. This particular book should be a source of much encouragement to those in their retirement years. Through setting out a helpful scenario which is then developed in each chapter she is able to help us take note of a number of the key issues which we are likely to face during retirement. Each chapter is appropriately linked with a different aspect of the fruit of the Spirit highlighting the attractive nature of living wholeheartedly for Christ right to the end of our days. I trust as this book is read many will be helped in navigating their way through their latter years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Angus MacLeay, Rector St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Retired and Inspired: Making the most of our latter years
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Attitudes to retirement vary, and in this book Wendy Billington draws on her pastoral skills and life experience to ask...
{"id":2439776075876,"title":"Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia","handle":"thinking-of-you-a-resource-for-the-spiritual-care-of-people-with-dementia","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted nature of this set of conditions, some possible theological responses are offered to such questions as: what is the nature of human identity? How can someone with severely impaired cognition have a full spiritual life? The book's final two sections are predominantly practical, addressing the spiritual care of the affected individual and how to help churches support affected individuals and their carers. This final section includes resources for ministry in residential care homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: Thinking about dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 1 A medical approach to dementia: 'Old-timer's disease'?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 2 A biological approach to dementia: the fading brain\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 3 A social approach to dementia: not gone but forgotten\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Thinking about the person with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 4 I think therefore I am?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 5 Beyond 'I think therefore I am'\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 6 God thinks therefore I am\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Thinking of you: the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 7 Being present to the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 8 Meaning-making in dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 9 Re-membering the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 4: Thinking about us: dementia-friendly churches\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 10 Full inclusion\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 11 Real belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 12 Celebration\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 13 Connection\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 14 Safe enough to play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt is Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon, Oxford Diocesan Advisor for the Spiritual Care of Older People, and also ministers in a parish. Her other books include Jesus and the Gospel Women, The Dawkins Delusion? (with Alister McGrath) and Meeting Jesus (with Jeremy Duff).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018). Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJoanna Collicutt is an experienced clinical neuropsychologist who for many years has worked with people living with conditions affecting the brain, including dementia. An Anglican priest and Advisor for Spiritual Care for Older People in Oxford (Anglican) Diocese.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe book first describes the medical, biological and social aspects of dementia. The biological aspects have excellent line drawings which help to explain various forms of dementia. I found it very accessible - e.g. likening changes in retrieval of memories to organising \/ finding things in an airing cupboard. Joanna conveys the reality of experiencing dementia and how it might feel: she tells of a person being afraid to enter some-one's front door because the doormat looked like a hole in the ground and they feared they might fall into it.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two is about the person - what might dementia feel like for them; what is the nature of human identity; how is it possible to have a full spiritual life with dementia. \u003cem\u003eI think therefore I am \u003c\/em\u003eleads to \u003cem\u003eGod thinks, therefore I am\u003c\/em\u003e. Part three is about spiritual care and being with the person with dementia. The final chapters give practical suggestions about dementia friendly churches, full inclusion, being connected, celebration and play. She also refers to support in residential homes. Might some of this information help Julian Meetings?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'The Door', June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDementia is a topic which is regularly highlighted by the media, not only as a subject associated with the increasing number of elderly people in our society but also with reference to well-known individuals found to be suffering from the condition. Joanna Collicutt's inspiring book is a timely, carefully referenced and annotated publication providing helpful advice and dispelling misconceptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDivided into four distinct parts, this resource begins with a medical approach to understanding dementia, first making two important points; that in medical terms dementia is a symptom rather than a disease and that occasional confusion and failing memory, not uncommon in older people, need not be a sign of something more sinister. Using helpful diagrams, the writer describes clearly and succinctly the various types of dementia and their physical causes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two moves on from analysing the condition to considering the sufferer. Using the analogy of the airing cupboard, the writer discusses memory, implicit and explicit. She examines the phrase 'trapped in the present', comparing it to 'life in God's now' and asking, 'How are we to make sense of the experience of dementia theologically?'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Three, dealing with the spiritual care of people with dementia, the word 're-membering' takes on a new significance, with references to 'person-centred' psychotherapy, the principle of authenticity, listening to body language and the importance of touch. Various aids to re-membering are suggested, including a this-is-my-life book and a memory box. Incidentally, it is recognised that 'being there' for a dementia sufferer has its cost, with a helpful section on dealing with one's own feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Four dementia-friendly churches are examined, the emphasis being on a community that is friendly to all. Practical suggestions, which will benefit both the physically and mentally impaired, are made to enable full inclusion. Also in this section is a suggested form of worship and a simple weekday service of celebration. Finally, in a chapter entitled 'Safe enough to play' the writer discusses types of abuse and the required response should there be evidence of this.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWritten from a Christian perspective, this book is both informative and challenging. It evidences great skill in dealing with complex concepts clearly and comprehensibly, and is a resource which should be on the bookshelves of all clergy and those involved with pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Thelma Shacklady\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder, June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 'Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia, Joanna Collicutt writes as a priest in the Church of England and as a clinical neuropsychologist. This book is an excellent introduction to the subject of dementia and a very practical spiritual resource for churches. An easy to understand, medical approach to dementia is outlined at the beginning.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found Joanna's analogy of an airing cupboard to describe the experience of dementia very useful. Newly-weds are given household linen and these items are neatly and carefully stored on the bottom shelf of the airing cupboard. As the years go by, easy-care sheets are placed on top of these -- then underpants and socks are thrown on top. As long as the door opens easily, all is well and items can be retrieved. But what if the door slowly closes? You now reach in through a narrowing gap to find what you need; it will be much easier to access the orderly folded linen at the bottom and it will be pure luck if you find a sock.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn the same way, a person living with dementia will find that memories which are deeply embedded and laid down in an orderly fashion are easiest to access. Joanna makes a distinction between explicit memories and implicit ones: an example of an implicit memory would be a hymn you do not recognise until the music starts and you find you know it. A person with dementia might not remember a visit from a relative or friend (explicit memory), but may be aware of kindness and touch (implicit memory). God holds us in mind, as the father of the prodigal son holds his absent son in mind. Although his son is in a distant land he is never forgotten.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found the most moving part of the book in the author's reminder about Easter in relation to dementia. On Good Friday Jesus is stripped of his capacities and on Holy Saturday he descends into the underworld to be with those forgotten by the world -- a profound solidarity. Joanna sees the calling of the churches to 'pick up the stitches which have been dropped'. There is practical advice on how to be with a person with dementia: we may allow a person their feelings of joy and despair, which can be incredibly intense.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, we need to cultivate 'an attitude of mindfulness to what we most fear'. Simple training is on offer to become a 'dementia friend'. Practical suggestions are offered, such as printing out Bible readings in large script, using traditional words to hymns and offering lifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book easy to read and digest. It would make excellent material for house groups and I think it would be good for every Methodist church to have a copy!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain, Sobell House Hospice, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:11+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:13+00:00","vendor":"Joanna Collicutt","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Kindle","Mar-17","Pastoral care","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769413722212,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464910","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436713295972,"product_id":2439776075876,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:13+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:55+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","variant_ids":[21769413722212]},"available":true,"name":"Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":230,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464910","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877724811,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877724811,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464910-l.jpg?v=1549043155","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThis book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted nature of this set of conditions, some possible theological responses are offered to such questions as: what is the nature of human identity? How can someone with severely impaired cognition have a full spiritual life? The book's final two sections are predominantly practical, addressing the spiritual care of the affected individual and how to help churches support affected individuals and their carers. This final section includes resources for ministry in residential care homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 1: Thinking about dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 1 A medical approach to dementia: 'Old-timer's disease'?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 2 A biological approach to dementia: the fading brain\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 3 A social approach to dementia: not gone but forgotten\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 2: Thinking about the person with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 4 I think therefore I am?\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 5 Beyond 'I think therefore I am'\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 6 God thinks therefore I am\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 3: Thinking of you: the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 7 Being present to the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 8 Meaning-making in dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 9 Re-membering the person with dementia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003ePart 4: Thinking about us: dementia-friendly churches\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 10 Full inclusion\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 11 Real belonging\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 12 Celebration\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 13 Connection\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eChapter 14 Safe enough to play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nThe Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt is Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon, Oxford Diocesan Advisor for the Spiritual Care of Older People, and also ministers in a parish. Her other books include Jesus and the Gospel Women, The Dawkins Delusion? (with Alister McGrath) and Meeting Jesus (with Jeremy Duff).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Julian Meetings Magazine (April 2018). Review by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eJoanna Collicutt is an experienced clinical neuropsychologist who for many years has worked with people living with conditions affecting the brain, including dementia. An Anglican priest and Advisor for Spiritual Care for Older People in Oxford (Anglican) Diocese.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe book first describes the medical, biological and social aspects of dementia. The biological aspects have excellent line drawings which help to explain various forms of dementia. I found it very accessible - e.g. likening changes in retrieval of memories to organising \/ finding things in an airing cupboard. Joanna conveys the reality of experiencing dementia and how it might feel: she tells of a person being afraid to enter some-one's front door because the doormat looked like a hole in the ground and they feared they might fall into it.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two is about the person - what might dementia feel like for them; what is the nature of human identity; how is it possible to have a full spiritual life with dementia. \u003cem\u003eI think therefore I am \u003c\/em\u003eleads to \u003cem\u003eGod thinks, therefore I am\u003c\/em\u003e. Part three is about spiritual care and being with the person with dementia. The final chapters give practical suggestions about dementia friendly churches, full inclusion, being connected, celebration and play. She also refers to support in residential homes. Might some of this information help Julian Meetings?\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Gail Ballinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'The Door', June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDementia is a topic which is regularly highlighted by the media, not only as a subject associated with the increasing number of elderly people in our society but also with reference to well-known individuals found to be suffering from the condition. Joanna Collicutt's inspiring book is a timely, carefully referenced and annotated publication providing helpful advice and dispelling misconceptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDivided into four distinct parts, this resource begins with a medical approach to understanding dementia, first making two important points; that in medical terms dementia is a symptom rather than a disease and that occasional confusion and failing memory, not uncommon in older people, need not be a sign of something more sinister. Using helpful diagrams, the writer describes clearly and succinctly the various types of dementia and their physical causes.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003ePart two moves on from analysing the condition to considering the sufferer. Using the analogy of the airing cupboard, the writer discusses memory, implicit and explicit. She examines the phrase 'trapped in the present', comparing it to 'life in God's now' and asking, 'How are we to make sense of the experience of dementia theologically?'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Three, dealing with the spiritual care of people with dementia, the word 're-membering' takes on a new significance, with references to 'person-centred' psychotherapy, the principle of authenticity, listening to body language and the importance of touch. Various aids to re-membering are suggested, including a this-is-my-life book and a memory box. Incidentally, it is recognised that 'being there' for a dementia sufferer has its cost, with a helpful section on dealing with one's own feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Part Four dementia-friendly churches are examined, the emphasis being on a community that is friendly to all. Practical suggestions, which will benefit both the physically and mentally impaired, are made to enable full inclusion. Also in this section is a suggested form of worship and a simple weekday service of celebration. Finally, in a chapter entitled 'Safe enough to play' the writer discusses types of abuse and the required response should there be evidence of this.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWritten from a Christian perspective, this book is both informative and challenging. It evidences great skill in dealing with complex concepts clearly and comprehensibly, and is a resource which should be on the bookshelves of all clergy and those involved with pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Thelma Shacklady\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder, June 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 'Thinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia, Joanna Collicutt writes as a priest in the Church of England and as a clinical neuropsychologist. This book is an excellent introduction to the subject of dementia and a very practical spiritual resource for churches. An easy to understand, medical approach to dementia is outlined at the beginning.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found Joanna's analogy of an airing cupboard to describe the experience of dementia very useful. Newly-weds are given household linen and these items are neatly and carefully stored on the bottom shelf of the airing cupboard. As the years go by, easy-care sheets are placed on top of these -- then underpants and socks are thrown on top. As long as the door opens easily, all is well and items can be retrieved. But what if the door slowly closes? You now reach in through a narrowing gap to find what you need; it will be much easier to access the orderly folded linen at the bottom and it will be pure luck if you find a sock.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn the same way, a person living with dementia will find that memories which are deeply embedded and laid down in an orderly fashion are easiest to access. Joanna makes a distinction between explicit memories and implicit ones: an example of an implicit memory would be a hymn you do not recognise until the music starts and you find you know it. A person with dementia might not remember a visit from a relative or friend (explicit memory), but may be aware of kindness and touch (implicit memory). God holds us in mind, as the father of the prodigal son holds his absent son in mind. Although his son is in a distant land he is never forgotten.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found the most moving part of the book in the author's reminder about Easter in relation to dementia. On Good Friday Jesus is stripped of his capacities and on Holy Saturday he descends into the underworld to be with those forgotten by the world -- a profound solidarity. Joanna sees the calling of the churches to 'pick up the stitches which have been dropped'. There is practical advice on how to be with a person with dementia: we may allow a person their feelings of joy and despair, which can be incredibly intense.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, we need to cultivate 'an attitude of mindfulness to what we most fear'. Simple training is on offer to become a 'dementia friend'. Practical suggestions are offered, such as printing out Bible readings in large script, using traditional words to hymns and offering lifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book easy to read and digest. It would make excellent material for house groups and I think it would be good for every Methodist church to have a copy!\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain, Sobell House Hospice, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Thinking of You: a resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia
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This book approaches dementia from a number of angles: biological, psychological, sociological, and theological. After an introduction explaining the multifaceted...
{"id":2439747600484,"title":"At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge","handle":"at-the-end-of-the-day-enjoying-life-in-the-departure-lounge","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an era of the relentlessly new. Turning to the Bible, he explores its store of timeless wisdom, encouragement and reassurance about what it has always meant to grow old and be old. The book is structured around a series of fascinating biblical pictures, from the legendary Methuselah to the feisty Sarah and the great leader Moses, from the picture of inevitable decline as the Preacher saw it in Ecclesiastes to the glorious Nunc Dimittis of old Simeon in the temple.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e'At the end of the day' is a well-worn phrase - yet seeing life as a single day, with dawn, noon, sunny afternoon, twilight and then darkness and sleep, provides a sort of contracted chronology of a journey we are all taking. Those who are at, or beyond, tea-time - as well as their friends and family - may find this book offers an essentially optimistic, positive and attractive picture of both the present and the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Winter introduces \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e because I wanted to address this situation not as a problem (which is how sociologists, politicians and media commentators seem to see it) but simply as yet another life experience. All through life we move more or less seamlessly from one stage to another, from childhood to adolescence, from that to young adulthood, from that to middle age, and from that to the retirement years. This book is an attempt to record what it is like finally to move into the departure lounge of life, awaiting the call to board our flight from this life to whatever it is that God has planned for us at its end.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe departure lounge is not as bad as it may look in prospect. Believe it or not, being old can be fun. Of course there are problems - aches and pains, sluggish memory and so on. But there are also enormous compensations in old age, including the freedom to be ourselves without any pressure to achieve or justify our existence. I was surprised to discover (when I got there myself) that the elderly don't endlessly discuss death. Compared with teenagers, young adults and even the middle-aged, they are not living with plans for the future but with the richness of the here and now.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day \u003c\/em\u003etakes a quizzical look at some of the wonderful old men and women whose stories are part of the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Surprisingly, perhaps, their experiences seem to match many of ours. We look at them, of course, through the long perspective of time and also through the prism of our modern experiences, but there is wisdom, fulfilment and encouragement in those biblical records.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a 'heavy' book. How could it be when the elderly spend so much time laughing at themselves and at the whole business of being old! Nor is it depressing - again, how could it be, when we are seated in that departure lounge awaiting the final great adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote it not just for those who are already old, although I hope they'll find it both amusing and encouraging, but also for all those who want to know what it's going to be like to join our ranks. They may be surprised to find that the poet Robert Browning got it right when he said, 'The best is yet to be.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/kP4wFKmvMmg\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a book for the elderly; those in their twilight years. With 1.4 million people in the U.K now over 85, this partly auto-biographical book is humorous and down to earth, taking a practical look at the benefits and pit-falls of old age. He looks at a number of Bible characters who are in or approaching old age, linking these with his own experiences and those of others known to him. With some delightful insights into the positive aspects of old age, and 'that (I love this line!) nothing is beyond redemption and no situation irretrievably hopeless' It can speak to those who feel their lives are worthless and aimless.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eHe looks honestly at the downsides of old age, its fears, doubts and regrets and the problem of loneliness and physical limitations. With its useful headings, the reader can `dip back` as and when needed. The book might have benefited from more detail of how to enjoy a deeper relationship with Jesus, and for non church goers, a simple explanation of the basic Gospel message would have been useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI would give a recommendation to buy this well researched, topical book as it is easy to read, has plenty of humour and no Christian Jargon. As a person approaching `the departure lounge` I found this little book very interesting and full of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Gill Mason for Preach Magazine September 28, 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter, now in his 80s, will be well known to many as a Christian writer, retreat leader and broadcaster. Readers should not be put off by the sub - title of his book, 'Enjoying life in the departure lounge', which is illustrative of the wry humour evident throughout. In fact, I have never laughed so much while reading a book on ageing. In his very personal introduction he declares that he no longer attempts a geriatric and breathtaking sprint when trying to catch a bus: 'After all, there will be another one in 30 minutes, and what's that in the eyes of eternity?' \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early chapters Winter confronts the prevailing culture of what he terms 'geraphobia', against which he pitches the enormous value of life experience which provides the sap for a fruitful old age. The remainder of the book is structured around a succession of biblical characters, from Methusaleh via (among others) Sarah and Abraham, Moses and the Psalmists to Simeon and Anna, the Holy Family and St Paul in the New Testament. What I expected might be old - hat turned out to be truly enlightening and to have real contemporary relevance. En route, he raises a number of issues that tend to be overlooked or played down: the tension between a desirable serenity and 'the tantrums of the terrible 80s'; waiting as expectancy rather than passivity; the need for wisdom to be tinged with humility. He is particularly helpful on the mood swings of old age which can cloud our vision of God and on loneliness. He acknowledges the value for older people of modern technology, such as emails and Skype, but captures the bewilderment of many when asked for 'passwords you've forgotten, customer numbers you never knew you had, overdraft facility figures you've never used - and all before you get to speak to a human being'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe final two chapters touch upon ultimate issues. He is perhaps right in suggesting that older people, living in the shadow of morality, do not in fact have death constantly in their thoughts nor are they over - concerned with the details of heaven. His concept of 'resurrection' and the after - life is movingly illustrated by the death of his wife which left him with the strong sense that she had not ceased to exist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI found this short book personally helpful and pastorally valuable. It is an honest testimony of the author's life and faith journey. Any older person will read it with profit and younger people with a greater understanding of their elders. And, yes, he does quote from Browning's 'Rabbi ben Ezra'. We can be encouraged that the best is indeed yet to be. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Albert Jewell for The Methodist Recorded 21 Feb 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:28+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:20:31+00:00","vendor":"David Winter","type":"Paperback","tags":["KCLC","Nov-13","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired","Torch Trust"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769047572580,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857460578","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":151,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857460578","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/attheendofthedaygraphic.png?v=1742486920"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/attheendofthedaygraphic.png?v=1742486920","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64212278542716,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/attheendofthedaygraphic.png?v=1742486920"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/attheendofthedaygraphic.png?v=1742486920","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eAn octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an era of the relentlessly new. Turning to the Bible, he explores its store of timeless wisdom, encouragement and reassurance about what it has always meant to grow old and be old. The book is structured around a series of fascinating biblical pictures, from the legendary Methuselah to the feisty Sarah and the great leader Moses, from the picture of inevitable decline as the Preacher saw it in Ecclesiastes to the glorious Nunc Dimittis of old Simeon in the temple.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e'At the end of the day' is a well-worn phrase - yet seeing life as a single day, with dawn, noon, sunny afternoon, twilight and then darkness and sleep, provides a sort of contracted chronology of a journey we are all taking. Those who are at, or beyond, tea-time - as well as their friends and family - may find this book offers an essentially optimistic, positive and attractive picture of both the present and the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Winter introduces \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e because I wanted to address this situation not as a problem (which is how sociologists, politicians and media commentators seem to see it) but simply as yet another life experience. All through life we move more or less seamlessly from one stage to another, from childhood to adolescence, from that to young adulthood, from that to middle age, and from that to the retirement years. This book is an attempt to record what it is like finally to move into the departure lounge of life, awaiting the call to board our flight from this life to whatever it is that God has planned for us at its end.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe departure lounge is not as bad as it may look in prospect. Believe it or not, being old can be fun. Of course there are problems - aches and pains, sluggish memory and so on. But there are also enormous compensations in old age, including the freedom to be ourselves without any pressure to achieve or justify our existence. I was surprised to discover (when I got there myself) that the elderly don't endlessly discuss death. Compared with teenagers, young adults and even the middle-aged, they are not living with plans for the future but with the richness of the here and now.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day \u003c\/em\u003etakes a quizzical look at some of the wonderful old men and women whose stories are part of the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Surprisingly, perhaps, their experiences seem to match many of ours. We look at them, of course, through the long perspective of time and also through the prism of our modern experiences, but there is wisdom, fulfilment and encouragement in those biblical records.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a 'heavy' book. How could it be when the elderly spend so much time laughing at themselves and at the whole business of being old! Nor is it depressing - again, how could it be, when we are seated in that departure lounge awaiting the final great adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote it not just for those who are already old, although I hope they'll find it both amusing and encouraging, but also for all those who want to know what it's going to be like to join our ranks. They may be surprised to find that the poet Robert Browning got it right when he said, 'The best is yet to be.'\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/kP4wFKmvMmg\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a book for the elderly; those in their twilight years. With 1.4 million people in the U.K now over 85, this partly auto-biographical book is humorous and down to earth, taking a practical look at the benefits and pit-falls of old age. He looks at a number of Bible characters who are in or approaching old age, linking these with his own experiences and those of others known to him. With some delightful insights into the positive aspects of old age, and 'that (I love this line!) nothing is beyond redemption and no situation irretrievably hopeless' It can speak to those who feel their lives are worthless and aimless.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eHe looks honestly at the downsides of old age, its fears, doubts and regrets and the problem of loneliness and physical limitations. With its useful headings, the reader can `dip back` as and when needed. The book might have benefited from more detail of how to enjoy a deeper relationship with Jesus, and for non church goers, a simple explanation of the basic Gospel message would have been useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eI would give a recommendation to buy this well researched, topical book as it is easy to read, has plenty of humour and no Christian Jargon. As a person approaching `the departure lounge` I found this little book very interesting and full of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Gill Mason for Preach Magazine September 28, 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003chr\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter, now in his 80s, will be well known to many as a Christian writer, retreat leader and broadcaster. Readers should not be put off by the sub - title of his book, 'Enjoying life in the departure lounge', which is illustrative of the wry humour evident throughout. In fact, I have never laughed so much while reading a book on ageing. In his very personal introduction he declares that he no longer attempts a geriatric and breathtaking sprint when trying to catch a bus: 'After all, there will be another one in 30 minutes, and what's that in the eyes of eternity?' \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early chapters Winter confronts the prevailing culture of what he terms 'geraphobia', against which he pitches the enormous value of life experience which provides the sap for a fruitful old age. The remainder of the book is structured around a succession of biblical characters, from Methusaleh via (among others) Sarah and Abraham, Moses and the Psalmists to Simeon and Anna, the Holy Family and St Paul in the New Testament. What I expected might be old - hat turned out to be truly enlightening and to have real contemporary relevance. En route, he raises a number of issues that tend to be overlooked or played down: the tension between a desirable serenity and 'the tantrums of the terrible 80s'; waiting as expectancy rather than passivity; the need for wisdom to be tinged with humility. He is particularly helpful on the mood swings of old age which can cloud our vision of God and on loneliness. He acknowledges the value for older people of modern technology, such as emails and Skype, but captures the bewilderment of many when asked for 'passwords you've forgotten, customer numbers you never knew you had, overdraft facility figures you've never used - and all before you get to speak to a human being'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe final two chapters touch upon ultimate issues. He is perhaps right in suggesting that older people, living in the shadow of morality, do not in fact have death constantly in their thoughts nor are they over - concerned with the details of heaven. His concept of 'resurrection' and the after - life is movingly illustrated by the death of his wife which left him with the strong sense that she had not ceased to exist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI found this short book personally helpful and pastorally valuable. It is an honest testimony of the author's life and faith journey. Any older person will read it with profit and younger people with a greater understanding of their elders. And, yes, he does quote from Browning's 'Rabbi ben Ezra'. We can be encouraged that the best is indeed yet to be. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Albert Jewell for The Methodist Recorded 21 Feb 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge
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An octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an era of the relentlessly...
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