Jane Marie Thibault

No Act of Love Is Ever Wasted

Sat, 14 May 2022 02:32:49 GMT

With more than 6 million people in the United States living with Alzheimer's disease and more than 11 million Americans providing unpaid care for people with Alzheimer's or other dementias, addressing the concerns of these elders and their caregivers is a matter of increasing importance. Relying on their many years of experience in this area, gerontologist Jane Marie Thibault and Richard L. Morgan offer this book to provide a fresh, hopeful model of dealing with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

Caregivers have two basic needs: affirmation that their caregiving is not in vain and reassurance that the lives of those for whom they care are not without purpose. Care receivers need more than medical attention—they need tender care, involvement in the community, and a sense of connection with a loving God. When care receivers and caregivers are able to view their relationship as a mutual spiritual path, each plays a role in deepening the spiritual life of the other.

Addressing topics such as communicating with and providing meaningful worship experiences for loved ones suffering from memory loss, Thibault and Morgan offer creative approaches to ensure care for both elders and caregivers. They also recommend ways churches can minister more effectively in this arena.

In addition to being an excellent resource for individuals caring for loved ones, No Act of Love Is Ever Wasted is a helpful resource for counselors, support group leaders, pastors, and other professionals. Besides offering practical ways to help, this book serves as a reminder that every act of love brings positive transformation to the recipient, the giver, and the world.

10 Gospel Promises for Later Life

Sat, 14 May 2022 02:11:55 GMT

Is there any good news in the "Good News" for older adults?

We're living longer. In fact, people 85 and older are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population. Life expectancy is increasing in all developed countries in the world.

With the gift of longer life, though, comes pain. The worst physical ailments and frailties may seem inconsequential when compared to the feelings of emotional and spiritual abandonment that many elders report today:

"I can't relate to Jesus' message any longer. The gospel calls for action. I can't do what Christ wants me to do, and I feel guilty."
"The Old Testament comforts me more than the New Testament. These writings relate to my situation more since I'm old, flat on my back, and utterly dependent on others."
"The church has no place for old people."
"I feel that I have outgrown Jesus —he's for beginners in the spiritual life."

Out of Thibault's reflection on the relevance of the gospel to later life comes hope.

"While secular society offers long-term care insurance, Jesus offers the promise of abundant life in the here and now as well in heaven," Thibault says.

Each chapter of 10 Gospel Promises for Later Life addresses a fear about aging and faith and gives an example of its negative effect on a person's daily life. Next you'll find a response, the promise of the gospel, the assurance of God's constant love that offers hope in all circumstances.

Identify your own fears (or the fears of a loved one) about aging, and learn from Thibault's sensitive study how to make the most of God's gift of longer life.

Questions for personal reflection or group discussion are included at the end of each chapter, making it an ideal book for individuals or classes.

Pilgrimage into the Last Third of Life

Sat, 14 May 2022 00:43:54 GMT

Do you dread growing old?

The Last Third of life, from age 60 on up, doesn't have to be feared. When viewed from a Christian perspective, this season of life can be meaningful, endurable, and even joyful, say authors Jane Thibault and Richard Morgan.

Thibault and Morgan suggest approaching the Last Third as a pilgrimage—a journey full of purpose, ripe with opportunities for spiritual growth.

The authors, ages 65 and 82, dig deeply into the realities of their lives and give you 7 ways to open yourself to God and the abundant life God wants for you. They address 7 gateways to spiritual growth:

Facing Aging and Dying
Learning to Live with Limitations
Doing Inner Work
Living in and Out of Community
Praying and Contemplation
Redeeming Loss and Suffering
Leaving a Legacy

This collection of scripture-based meditations will inspire you or someone you know to move fearlessly into the Last Third, looking forward to the opportunities this time of life can hold. The book includes reflection questions and can be used by individuals or groups for a 7-week study.