Spirituality of Aging Facilitator Training

The popular curriculum on the spirituality of aging explores the challenges and rewards of aging in a spiritual context. Designed for small groups, the series rejects stereotypical views that define aging in terms of a singular narrative of decline, and instead reveals this season of life through a lens of spiritual growth, purpose, and meaning.

“During this season of life older people ask themselves, ‘What is my value? What gives my life significance when I am no longer as active or productive as I used to be?,’” notes the Rev. Susan K. Walker, co-author of the curriculum. “At a time when they may feel increasingly vulnerable, society asks them to have courage and to be brave through all sorts of transitions and losses. The truth is paradoxical: we are both fragile and resilient. The Path Ahead recognizes that we can demonstrate remarkable resilience, generosity, and compassion in sharing ourselves and our gifts. And that includes our inner lives that are worth sharing.”

Over six sessions, participants grapple with ageism, identify changing spiritual needs, equip themselves with new prayer practices, and engage in discernment about God’s continuing call. Contemplative practices form the backbone of the curriculum, with a new one introduced each session. Employing video presentations, directed discussion,  and the arts, The Path Ahead: Spirituality & Purpose in Later Life℠ encourages connection, builds community, and promotes wellbeing.

The Path Ahead continues to reach new milestones, going international in 2025 and publishing a second edition of its digital Facilitator Guide.

“As a person who works in adult learning and training I really appreciate the high quality of the curriculum,” said Christine Amy, Associate of Holy Cross Monastery (NY). Noted a recently trained facilitator, “I better understand the feelings, lives, dreams, fears, and joys of those in elderhood.”

The Path Ahead was developed by Seabury Resources for Aging^® in partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, DC, and is offered through the Diocese’s School for Christian Faith and Leadership. Register for upcoming training workshops.

Inquiries about The Path Ahead are welcomed. Contact Elizabeth Boyd, Ph.D., Director of Community Outreach and Education, Seabury Resources for Aging^®, at eboyd@seaburyresources.org.