Reflections
Meet Elisa Thompson, ALC member and a part of the Generation X
Posted on March 20, 2019 | Posted by Mary Stoneback
We have gifted members involved in leading and serving in ministries at Ascension Lutheran Church. In fact, we can’t do what we do without their God-given gifts and time. One of the hundreds includes Elisa Thompson. She’s also one of the 80 some of the Generation X being celebrated on March 24, 9:15 am. If you’re able to join in the fun, stop and say hello! We’ll enjoy cake, sparkling cider and fun videos featuring more of ALC’s GenX! Here’s more from Elisa on her involvement at Ascension and what it means to her to be a part of the ministry.
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I earned my PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Arizona in 1998. My area of expertise is how human development interacts with best teaching and learning practices. I have taught at the college level since 1999 and also have nonprofit experience, most notably in the area of supporting caregivers of the aging and dying. I have also completed one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). I have participated at Ascension in many venues from assisting with Communion clean-up to Care Deacon and Director of Parish Education. Given my professional background, I was delighted when I was invited to participate in the Johnson Institute’s Spiritual Gerontology certificate program along with Deacon Mary and Jim. My largest take-away from the Johnson Institute Certificate Program was that aging is a blessed and intentional part of God’s plan for creation and that in the eyes of the Lord, we have value and purpose every day of our lives, especially as we age! What a refreshing break from what the media and larger culture tells us! My hope for those participating in FFMA (Faith Formation for Maturing Adults) activities in 2019 is that they will feel empowered and encouraged to embrace God’s call to them whether that be celebrating their generational place in our church family and making new friendships across age groups or healthily working through grief. I feel very blessed to provide FFMA offerings to our church family!
