Introduction to Aging: An Aging Ministry Course for Faith Leaders(Faith) Building Stronger Faith Communities for an Aging Population As the population grows older, faith communities have an increasingly important opportunity to support older adults through meaningful connection, compassionate leadership, and inclusive ministry. Introduction to Aging: An Aging Ministry Course for Faith Leaders prepares clergy, chaplains, ministry directors, and other faith leaders to respond thoughtfully to the opportunities and challenges of aging. Offered fully online in an asynchronous format, the course allows participants to learn at their own pace, on their own schedule. Drawing on theology, gerontology, social work, and organizational strategy, the course explores how faith communities can move beyond responding to immediate needs and develop sustainable approaches to supporting older adults. Participants will gain practical knowledge and a pastoral framework for creating welcoming, inclusive, and protective environments where older adults can remain engaged, valued, and connected. Expand Your Learning and Save Interested in both aging ministry leadership and navigating aging services? Enroll in our Faith and Aging two-course bundle for just $149 and save $49 compared with purchasing the courses separately. Both courses are fully online, self-paced, and can be completed in either order. Explore the Two-Course Bundle Modules About the Instructor This self-paced course contains six modules: The Call to Care and the Aging Wave The Biological and Social Realities of Aging Identifying and Navigating Potential Pitfalls Support for the Journey: Dementia, Grief, and Caregiving Building a Sustainable Ministry Conclusion and Resource Toolkit About the Instructor Joseph L. Lugo, MADirector, Beard Center on Aging | University of Lynchburg Joseph Lugo brings more than 25 years of experience in aging services, policy, and community support at the federal, state, and local levels. As Director of the University of Lynchburg's Beard Center on Aging, he leads initiatives focused on healthy aging, caregiver support, community engagement, and improving the lives of older adults. Previously, Joseph served in a leadership role with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Community Living, where he directed national and state initiatives involving aging and disability resources, person-centered planning, caregiver support, and access to long-term services. He holds a master's degree in Gerontology and a graduate certificate in Public Management Practices from the University of Illinois Springfield. His areas of expertise include faith-based outreach, caregiving, aging services navigation, and connecting older adults with the resources they need to thrive. Price: $99.00 Quantity: Return to Catalog