Description: 'With God's Oldest Friends' is filled with realistic, detailed, and practical information for pastoral caregivers. What makes it unique is its basis in ascetical/mystical theology. Calling the nursing home a true 'dark night of the soul' transformation and spiritual growth of the highest kind. The reader just might feel a strong and urgent call to a deeper level of ministry with people who are on the verge of God. I certainly did. Jane Marie Thibault, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine Our feelings of obligation and yet uneasiness about visiting ill people intensify when the ones confined are in nursing homes. This fine volume will be of great help to family members, clergy, and pastoral ministers in facing that situation. Its useful information and practical suggestions should significantly lower discomfort levels and make the obligatory visits much more satisfying experiences for all involved. Rev. Joseph M. Champlin, Rector at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Syracuse, New York, Author of 'A Thoughtful word, A Healing Touch: A Guide for visiting the Sick'
Brief description: Henry C. Simmons is Professor of Religion and Aging at the Presbyterian School of Christian Education, where he is also Director of the Center on Aging.
Mark A. Peters, a recent graduate of Union Theological Seminary in Virginia, has served as a corrections officer, certified nurse's aide, and more recently as a pastoral minister in geriatric settings.Review Quotes: "'With God's Oldest Friends' is filled with realistic, detailed, and practical information for pastoral caregivers. What makes it unique is its basis in ascetical/mystical theology. Calling the nursing home a true 'dark night of the soul' transformation and spiritual growth of the highest kind. The reader just might feel a strong and urgent call to a deeper level of ministry with people who are on the verge of God. I certainly did."
Jane Marie Thibault, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine"Our feelings of obligation and yet uneasiness about visiting ill people intensify when the ones confined are in nursing homes. This fine volume will be of great help to family members, clergy, and pastoral ministers in facing that situation. Its useful information and practical suggestions should significantly lower discomfort levels and make the obligatory visits much more satisfying experiences for all involved." Rev. Joseph M. Champlin, Rector at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Syracuse, New York, Author of 'A Thoughtful word, A Healing Touch: A Guide for visiting the Sick'