Date of Award

3-6-2025

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

H. Colleen Butcher, DMin

Second Advisor

Martina Hagler, DMin

Third Advisor

Leonard I. Sweet, PhD

Abstract

NPO Statement

Experiences of lost independence or control overwhelm or block the spiritual coping mechanisms of some Independent Living residents at Givens Estates.

Key Research Insights

Deep cultural bias, denial, and a lack of realistic role models form blocks between us and healthy coping with the realities of aging. When we lose independence and control, we often lose our expected storyline, our sense of our identity, and our understanding of the role of our spiritual traditions. The Christian tradition offers rich resources for redefining our story and ourselves in ways that deepen our faith and our connection with the people around us. Our loss of personal independence and control ultimately opens doors for deeper connection, richer understanding, and fuller faith.

Ministry Context

Givens Estates is a retirement community with over 730 residents in Asheville, North Carolina. While the community is historically related to the United Methodist church, current residents reflect a wide diversity of faith and philosophical backgrounds. The community serves levels of care from Independent Living to Skilled Nursing. My NPO is focused on the Independent Living residents who are facing significant transitions in level of health and/or levels of care, and the first stage of the project approaches the NPO through the Christian tradition.

Description of the Project

The project provides exploration of Christian traditions and Biblical stories as they guide us through our losses of independence and control in two modalities. The slide presentations provide opportunities for in-person processing and sharing in a class setting. Future video presentations will provide a platform for those who need individual access to the material at home.

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