Toward Holy Ground

by Margaret Guenther

The second half of life―which we can enter at any age―is that time when we begin the process essential to a mature discovering who we are, exploring our relationship with God, and beginning to let go. This part of life has a depth and spirituality all its own―a need for structure and rule, a tolerance of ambiguity, an exploration of limitation and mortality, and the deep work of discipline and detachment.

Margaret Guenther brings her insights as a spiritual director to the gifts and opportunities of those of us who are on this journey to “holy ground.” In each chapter, Toward Holy Ground explores the practical aspects of spirituality in intercessory prayer, a sense of community, a rule of life, lightheartedness, detachment, and stripping down, preparing for “a good death.” A final chapter discusses practical aspects of ministry to the frail aged.

Genres: Spirituality, Religion

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 25, 1995

Reviews

[Neil Saltmarsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book I have read by Margaret Guenther. It is written in humility and compassion about ageing and being with the aged. Some protestants may recoil at motifs like St. Anne but what the author has to say is quite original because it is an area that is little explored let alone lived. I highly recommend it to Christian's in or coming into the latter half of life with God.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margaret Guenther shares how the changes in pace and perspective as you get older are normal and healthy.

Her chapter on the Craft of Life is intriguing and introduces St. Benedict's Rule as a sort of template for life.

Her chapters about death and working with the aged changed my perspective about time spent with my older friends and family.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating book about working with the elderly as a spiritual director. It provides into the concerns of people as they age, especially those in retirement or nursing homes. Full of advice for people wanting to improve the seniors' lives.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margaret Guenther offers wonderful insight into ministry with seniors along with the concepts of spiritual direction, and the role of spiritual directors in the lives of others. I particularly loved how she introduced St. Anne, the mother of Mary as her "new patron" saint for the second half of her life.

The fourth and fifth chapters is rich with valuable reflection on healing ministry of the church, and the long and slow process of approaching death. This material will be helpful in preparing lay ministers for pastoral visitation ministry.

Guenther has honed the craft of storytelling, and has a writing style that is accessible and uncluttered with excessive academic speak.