Finding Grace, Embracing the Gift of Years
Reflection Days Shine Light on the Spiritual Journey of AgingA Day of Reflection for Those in the Second Half of Life was held at the St. John XXIII Pastoral Center in Charleston on September 10th and at the St. Joseph Retreat Center in Wheeling on September 25th
Participants, ranging in age from their 50s to their 90s, enjoyed a day of sharing and prayer about the joys and challenges of eldering. Sessions focused on the Heresy of Aging, the Paradox of Aging, and the Spirituality of Aging.
Shirley Carter, Director of the Department of Faith Formation and Marist Brother John Byrd were the facilitators in Charleston with 21 people in attendance at the center run by Director Gerri Wright.
Carter and Anna Marie Troiani, Executive Director of the Retreat Center were the facilitators in Wheeling with 17 people in attendance. With support and encouragement from Bishop Mark Brennan these two events served as pilot programs for what hopefully will continue as a ministry to those in their later years.Father in Heaven,
thank You for the gift of years.
Help us to see aging as a time of grace.
Give us patience in our struggles,
gratitude for each day,
and wisdom and confidence
to share your love joyfully with others.
May we walk in faith and hope,
trusting that our lives
rest always in Your hands.
Amen.
