Dr. Glenn Bryant Havumaki offers a thoughtful and faith centered perspective on aging in his book TRASHED or TREASURED?: A Short, Practical Theology of Aging. Drawing from decades of ministry experience and biblical teaching, the book invites readers to reconsider how older adults are viewed and valued within families, churches, and society.

Grounded in Scripture, Havumaki emphasizes that every human life carries lasting dignity and purpose. The book reminds readers that mankind is “fearfully and wonderfully made” in the image of God and that this value does not diminish with age. Instead, the later years of life can serve as a meaningful season filled with wisdom, spiritual growth, and opportunities to continue serving God.

Through a practical theological lens, the author explores how the church can better understand and respond to the realities of aging. As the population continues to grow older, particularly with the aging of the Baby Boomer generation, many churches will face new challenges in caring for and supporting their senior members. Havumaki argues that this moment calls for a clearer and more consistent theology of aging that affirms the worth of older adults while helping them remain active in faith and service.

The book encourages families and congregations to reconnect with older adults rather than allowing them to become isolated or overlooked. Havumaki stresses that aging should not be viewed as a period of decline or irrelevance but rather as an important stage in a lifelong journey of faith. With the right encouragement and support, older adults can continue to contribute to the spiritual life of the church while leaving a legacy for future generations.

Dr. Douglas W. Fombelle, Dean Emeritus of Bethel Seminary, recognizes the importance of Havumaki’s work and describes the book as a valuable resource for church leaders and ministry training. According to Fombelle, the book provides practical insight that can help prepare the next generation of pastors and ministry leaders to serve an aging population with wisdom and compassion.

About the Author

Dr. Glenn Havumaki has spent much of his life in ministry serving older adults. Since 1976 he has worked in pastoral care and spiritual leadership, including thirty-five years as Director of Christian Ministries and Lead Chaplain at The Elim Park Baptist Home in Cheshire, Connecticut.

After retiring in 2014, he continued his work as a Certified Ministry Partner with the Christian Grandparenting Network. In a meaningful full circle moment, Dr. Havumaki is now a resident at Elim Park, where he also serves on a team of retired pastors as a Resident Chaplain.

He is also “Papa” to nine blue eyed grandchildren, ranging in age from one to twenty-one, a role that continues to inspire his faith and ministry.

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