Still Growing

"It can no longer be said that theological education neglects the study of aging. Perhaps seminaries neglected aging a couple of decades ago. But now, most or all seminaries have courses on life cycle theory, pastoral care of older adults, or sections on aging within specialized courses. Written by the most influential pastoral theologian in the history of the discipline, Still Growing is an exciting contribution of a prolific author who is still growing."

--Nathan Carlin, University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX



"Still Growing ought to be required reading for anyone who engages in pastoral care ministry with adults over age seventy. For those who are making the transition to older adulthood, Capps offers insights on how to navigate the road ahead with courage, creativity, humor, and an abiding sense of hope. He does so with the wisdom of a 'senior adult' and the winsomeness of a pastoral theologian who is still young at heart."

--Carol L. S. Schweitzer, Union Presbyterian Seminary, Richmond, VA



"Building on Freud, Erikson, and Pruyser (or pyschoanalytic tradition), Capps explores the overlooked potential for personal growth and creativity in older adulthood. Still Growing is a rare example of a wise and hopeful book. A must-read for everyone over sixty."

--Troels Norager, Aarhus University, Denmark



"Capps demonstrates how older adulthood remains generative, interesting, and full of possibilities. He subverts stereotypes of aging to show how growth and thriving in older adulthood are not only possible but normative, even if aging includes 'growing pains' particular to the older adult. I know of no one else who could make such a compelling case for life beginning (afresh) at seventy! This book should be read by older adults, those who love and care for them, and those who can learn from them--which includes us all."

--Allan Hugh Cole Jr., Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Austin, TX



"Relentlessly, yet personally and gently honest about aging. There is no escape, yet freedom beckons. Hope, serenity, and creativity become possibilities. Deeply knowledgeable on psychology, spirituality, and the human life cycle, Donald Capps gives solace--no cheap comfort, but rather profound wisdom. He offers it playfully, joyfully, artistically, humorously, gracefully. His fresh perspective on the daunting prospect of becoming an older adult: there are 'fringe benefits.'"

--Yolanda Dreyer, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa