Toward Holy Ground: Spiritual Directions for the Second Half of Life

Having been mightily impressed with Margaret Guenther's The Practice of Prayer, I was eager to read more from this wise, articulate, and highly compassionate woman.This is not just a book for senior citizens, as the title might suggest. Indeed, as far as I am concerned, the second half of life is everything after that point when you wake up and realize that you are indeed getting older and that you cannot hold onto your youth, and you begin to question what is really important in life. Margaret Guenther shows us many ways of seeing and sifting, and getting to the core of what it is to be human and Christian. Although she is an ordained Episcopal priest, I think this book will speak to everyone of the Christian faith as they are growing older, and let's face it, who isn't?Highly recommended.

In "Toward Holy Ground", spiritual director and theologian Margaret Guenther discusses the effect of mortality and aging on spirituality. Although the title suggests this book refers to those approaching or into mid or later life, Reverend Guenther suggests that the "second half of life" can occur at any age - it is a mindset and a change in focus, rather than an arrival at any specific age.Wonderfully written, this book speaks about spiritual direction, craft, shifts in perspective and life; as well as discussing aging, both as one who will eventually age, and one who has ministered to the aged. Her insights are sensitive and helpful, and the suggestions for ministry practical and compassionate. Her sections on spiritual direction do tend toward a mainline Christian focus, not surprisingly, as Ms. Guenther is an Episcopal priest. An excellent, helpful book.

Adjusting to the aging process is every bit as challenging as the passage from childhood to adolescence. When you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and see your mother, it's time read Toward Holy Ground. The author is an Episcopal priest, no longer young herself, whose wisdom and insight into the aging process make this gently written, easily read book invaluable for those of us in the second half of life. Reading it is similar to having a conversation with a friend, about many things we share, the things that make aging wonderful and difficult. The author has written several books, including The Practice of Prayer, and Holy Listening.