Wisdom Conversations: opportunity for learning and sharing experiences of ministry with older adults
Ministry and Dementia: In our fourth annual event, we will explore ways to be in ministry with and support for those who are experiencing cognitive decline and their caregivers.
Wisdom Conversations
Tuesdays: February 2, 9, 16
3:00 – 5:00 EST (2:00 -4:00 Central)
$15 registration fee for the series of three webinars
Presenters: Rev. John and Dr. Susan McFadden
This series will be held in two-hour Zoomed sessions, with time for conversations in small groups.
Register today to reserve your seat!
Conference Schedule: Wisdom Conversations 2021: Ministry and Dementia
Feb 2
Feb 9
Feb 16
15:00
- 17:00
DEMENTIA: What we know. What we don’t know.
SESSION ONE: What information is most important for clergy and lay leaders?
Some topics to be addressed:
- Why clergy, lay leaders, and congregations need to understand dementia
- The biomedical terminology used to describe the different types of dementia
- The limitations of biomedical terminology
- Dementia stigma: Origins of stigma; theological critiques
- Individual differences in how dementia is experienced by the person with the cognitive challenges and by care partners
- How situating this discussion within a theological perspective affects our attitudes about dementia and people experiencing it
John T. McFadden, M.Div
Susan H. McFadden, Ph.D.
15:00
- 17:00
DEMENTIA: What is “normal” aging and what is not
SESSION TWO: “I’m worried about my memory. My thinking has changed. I’m scared.” Compassionate responses to people with subjective memory concerns.
Topics to be addressed:
- What’s normal about memory and aging? When should you talk with your doctor?
- Wisdom conversations with people worried about their cognitive functions
- How to have the conversation when we note changes that aren’t acknowledged by our friend, family member, or church member
- Theological guidance for these conversations
- Getting a diagnosis
- What can people expect about the process?
- What influences how people respond to receiving a diagnosis?
- What should be considered in regard to telling others about the diagnosis?
- Personal and Professional insights from Revs. Scott and Karen Grisswold, pastors of South Vienna United Church
Susan H. McFadden, Ph.D.
John T. McFadden, M.Div
15:00
- 17:00
MINISTRY and DEMENTIA: New opportunities for meaning and joy
SESSION THREE: Ministry with those living with dementia and learning to live with a progressive condition that will produce loss but also opportunities for new forms of joy and meaning.
Topics to be considered in terms of different points in the journey:
- Theological reflections on responses to a progressive condition
- Spiritual care: how will it change with dementia progression?
- Worship: what accommodations may be needed?
- Opportunities to serve: how can they be offered along the way?
- End of life care
John T. McFadden, M.Div
Susan H. McFadden, Ph.D.
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