Table of Contents

Contents
 
Preface
Acknowledgments
Section I: Frameworks for Understanding
   Chapter 1: About Age and Aging
   Chapter 2: Exploring Psychosocial Development
   Chapter 3: Understanding Generations
   Chapter 4: A Bit about Stereotypes and Ageism
Section II: In Every Generation
   Chapter 5: Identity
   Chapter 6: Purpose
   Chapter 7: Belonging
   Chapter 8: Legacy
Section III: Moving Forward Together
   Chapter 9: Listening
   Chapter 10: Decision-Making
   Chapter 11: Embracing Change
Appendix A: Listening
Appendix B: Decision-Making
Notes
Subject Index
Scripture Index
 
 

About the Author

Meredith Gould, PhD, is a sociologist, longtime spiritual seeker, online community manager, and digital communications professional. Her consulting experience spans all levels of church across denominations. Dr. Gould is nationally known as a passionate advocate of using digital tools for ministry and to encourage practical spirituality. Learn more at www.meredithgould.com.

Reviews

“How can the Church survive if we cannot work across generations? Meredith Gould cuts through the noise, erases artificial lines we have drawn, knocks down walls of separation and speaks directly to the heart of this issue in Transcending Generations. If the Church is to continue then its members must recognize that difference between generations is something to embrace. Gould's examination of barriers preventing prevent communication across generations will allow readers to consider different ways of approaching God, the Church, and ministry. Her book will serve as a starting point for fostering important and faith filled conversations about how to serve God, work together and grow in our faith. The Church needs to have these conversations now more than ever.”
Rev. Evan M. Dolive, Author of Seeking Imperfection: Body Image, Marketing and God (Pilgrim Press)

"Not only does Meredith Gould explore traditional thinking and research about generations but she explores the myths that keep many people and churches stuck in faith formation and impede deepening meaningful relationships. Her work challenges assumptions and creates paths for new approaches to intergenerational learning, faith formation and ministry. A must read.”
Edward H. Hammett, Author of Reaching People Under 30 While Keeping People Over 60 (TCP Books) www.TransformingSolutions.org

“Transcending Generations is an indispensable guidebook for anyone navigating the dynamics of living in community and collaborating with others. Meredith Gould’s practical wisdom and insight are helpful for teams of any size learning to work together. Her book is my new go-to resource for helping congregational leaders work together more effectively and efficiently.”
Rev. David Hansen, Pastor of Spirit of Joy! Lutheran Church and Director of Communication and Innovation of LEAD

“The work of faith communities cannot be a solitary endeavor restricted to one particular population or age group. Meredith Gould helps readers understand the value of creating sacred space for one another to explore our purposes, identities, and legacies as a people of faith while drawing upon generational experiences. She explains how sociology and psychology intersect with Incarnational identities as people of faith. Anyone seeking deeper relationships and understanding within their communities needs to read—and use—this book. Transcending Generations helped me facilitate intergenerational groups who are looking to have honest conversations about growing faith and strengthening bonds.”
Rev. Tuhina Verma Rasche    

“Transcending Generations helps us understand the ages and generations of adulthood in a new and refreshing way. At the heart of this book is the central insight that all adults—across all generations—share common core issues: identity, purpose, belonging, and legacy. Presenting these core issues from developmental and generational perspectives provides the understanding necessary for learning how to develop cross generational conversations, relationships, and ministry. Practical ideas and strategies provide tools for fostering conversation and relationship building. Meredith Gould has written an essential and timely resource.
John Roberto, LifelongFaith Associates, Co-author of Seasons of Adult Faith Formation and Generations Together

“Transcending Generations is a resource that is long overdue. This book is filled with helpful insights for organizations and faith communities seeking to understand and benefit from differences in generations. Meredith Gould offers a way for individuals and groups to maneuver successfully through the challenges and changes of life.”
Rev. Dr. Richard W Rouse, ELCA pastor and author of Beyond Church Walls: Cultivating a Culture of Care (Fortress Press)

“As a young pastor, I experienced the shifting and changing environment of generational church differences every day. Meredith Gould provides an indispensable guide for congregations to explore the nature of human development, shifting culture, dealing with differences, and change. Transcending Generations lays everything on the table for pastors, church leadership, staff, and laity to navigate ministry in the 21st century. I wish I had this book 10 years ago.”
Rev. Alan R. Rudnick, pastor and author of TheWork of The Associate Pastor (Judson Press)

“In a culture (and sometimes a church) that separates and stresses differences, Meredith Gould has given us a treasure that is so needed—thoughts and practices that accentuate our unity, our alikeness. Her book is filled with new insights, reflective questions, and perceptive exercises. You’ll find yourself highlighting every other line! In addition to being a ‘workbook’ for collaboration, Transcending Generations would be a superb resource for an individual and/or group retreat. Gould provides all this in an easy-to-read, enjoyable style while challenging us to grow more deeply, relate more humanely, and serve more generously.”
Janet Schaeffler, OP Author of Deepening Faith: Adult Faith Formation in the Parish (Liturgical Press)