The Best is Yet to Be: A Spirituality for the Maturing Years

Presenter: Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP

Register prior to class to insure class availability.

Catechist Credit: 3.5 hours applies toward Catechetics

There are now more Americans age 65 and older than at any other time in U.S. history; it will continue to grow.  The Census Bureau estimates that in the years to come the population that is 65 and older will more than double while the population under 20 years of age will see no growth.

Four hundred years before Jesus, Plato remarked, “The spiritual eyesight improves as the physical eyesight declines.”  Recently Dr. Richard P. Johnson, Ph.D. said, “As we mature, our spiritual pace quickens.”

Because their spirituality doesn’t stagnate or idle but improves and quickens, within our parishes we have the challenge and privilege to walk with our vibrant seniors in their spiritual growth and mission within the community and the wider world.  Let’s reflect together on our vision to affirm, support and engage maturing adults in their journey; focusing on some practical successful and beneficial things that can be offered.

Janet Schaeffler, OP is an Adrian Dominican Sister who has spent many years in parish and archdiocesan catechetical ministry (most recently as Director of Adult Faith Formation for the archdiocese of Detroit).  Her primary area of expertise is adult faith formation, with a special emphasis on senior ministry.