The practical experience, wisdom, attitude, and example of many older people make them especially valued gifts to the life of the Church. Since Christ calls everyone to proclaim the Gospel, he calls the elderly as well, which enhances the richness of intergenerational catechesis.

The catechesis of older people takes into account the diversity of their personal, family and social conditions…It pays particular attention to the maturity of their faith. Many of the elderly come to old age with a strong and vibrant faith. Catechesis for them should help develop an attitude of thanksgiving and hopeful expectation.  (National Directory for Catechesis, 194)

by John W. Martin.

According to researcher and author, Dr. Richard Johnson, senior adulthood falls into one of three groups:

I. Boomers- Ages 55-72; this is a time in life of growth and positive challenge, when people devote themselves more directly to their own interests and talents.

II. Builders- Ages 73 and up; this is a time of general physical slowing down, yet many with minds as sharp and quick as always.

III. Elders- Those who live very long lives and possibly the wisest members of the community. Many have experienced some form of physical or cognitive slowing down. They might need our care, but we need their wisdom. As a society, we have the most to learn from this group, because they paved the path where we walk.

Aging (maturation) is as much a spiritual growth process as it is a psychological and physical growth process. Johnson suggests that successful senior adult ministry includes:
• A shift in thinking, away from a ‘senior group’ mentality and toward a ‘maturing adult ministry’ mentality;
• A focus on everyday, real life issues, and to times of personal transition of maturing adults;
• An honor of diversity: of age, stage, personality, ethnicity, and soul.
Learn more about this work click on www.senioradultministry.com

RESOURCES: (Books)

Faith Formation with the Baby Boom Generation  John Roberto Click on title for the latest Research, Practices and Books.  Huge amounts of internet information available in this resource!

Christian Adulthood- A Journey of Self-Discovery by Evelyn Eaton Whitehead & James D. Whitehead.  We are called by God, we sense ourselves being led, coaxed, and invited into certain paths. To mature, is to become more tolerant of our own enduring and even startling weaknesses.  For more information click on book review or to order book.

Creating a Successful Retirement- Finding Peace and Purpose by Dr. Richard Johnson.  “A spiritual thread runs through all the needs of retirees – a thread of pursuing peace and finding purpose. It is this thread that has the power to transform an ordinary retirement into an exceptional journey of discovery. Retirement is perhaps the greatest time for self-discovery."  For book review or 10 additional resources.

Nurturing Adult Faith- A Manual for Parish Leaders, NCCL.  Vision & Rational: “Called to live a life that reflects fully the love of God”  “Called to immerse ourselves in the ministry of Jesus” Adults are the most capable of making a free and full response to the Gospel message.  

Toward an Adult Church- A Vision of Faith Formation by Jane E. Regan, Loyola Press, 2002.  Addresses the meaning of adult faith formation service to an adult church.  This book weaves together the heart of beginning and becoming an adult church.  For more information on book review or to order book.  

Parish Ministry for Maturing Adults- Principles, Plans & Bold Proposals by Dr. Richard Johnson.  This resource explains what needs to happen prior to ministering to maturing adults and offers twelve foundational/ key principles for successful parish ministry.  To read book review or to order book.

The Gift of Years- Growing Older Gracefully by Joan Chittister, BlueBridge Publishing, 2008.  Accepting but also celebrating getting old, this inspirational and illuminating work looks at the many facets of the aging process, from purposes and challenges to struggles and surprises.  Readers are encouraged to surmount their fears of getting older and find beauty in aging well.  For more information.

DVD Programs:

Well, Wise & Whole- Faith Formation Programs designed for mature adults 50 and older, by Dr. Richard Johnson.  6 DVD programs are available including a CD containing all supplementary print materials!  No need to purchase individual workbooks.  For more information.

BOOK CLUB:

Catholic Spirituality for Adults – 10 books written by some very popular authors!  Titles include: Spirituality of Community, Prayer, Reconciliation, Diversity of Vocations, Holiness,  Charity, Eucharist, Mary, Following Jesus and Listening to God’s Word.  A simple study guide for each book, with reflection/discussion questions for each chapter is available.  Click to view Books and Study Guide.  Highlighted books can be borrowed from us.

For more information, please contact us (716) 847-5521 in the Department of Lifelong Faith Formation for assistance with developing catechetical opportunities for adults in your parish.