Description
Each year in the UK, 225,000 people are diagnosed with dementia. The implications for aging church congregations, and for the Christian mission to people throughout their lives, are considerable. This resource aims to equip those engaged in ministry to people with dementia and those preparing for such a ministry. It explores the theological and spiritual challenges to be faced, suggests practical ways in which acts of worship can enable those living with dementia to participate as fully as they are able, and offer a wide range of prayers and worship outlines. Part One offers invaluable theological reflection on living with dementia, dementia and spiritual awareness, creating dementia-friendly churches, and creating accessible worship. Part Two offers a repository of services, prayers, readings and activities for engaging all the senses in worship, for use in formal or informal church contexts, church cafes, care homes or hospitals. In an Afterword, Samuel Wells reflects on unlocking the gates of memory.