In this episode, Susan has a conversation with Marjorie Thompson, ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church USA and former research fellow at Yale Divinity School, where she worked with Henry Nowan. According to estimates from the National Alliance for Caregiving, 65.7 million Americans (or 29% of the adult U.S. adult population) served as caregivers during the past year. Marjorie's wisdom and insights go beyond those who are caregivers.

Marjorie Thompson has charted an unconventional path within her career, guided not by the traditional role of parish ministry but by a profound calling toward retreat work, teaching, and writing in the field of spiritual formation. Her journey commenced in Connecticut, where she initially served in a parish for four years, an experience that no doubt laid important groundwork for her later endeavors.

Seeking a deeper, more personal vocation, Marjorie and her husband bid farewell to his Connecticut roots, setting a new course for Nashville. It was here that Marjorie truly began carving out her niche, focusing on the transformative aspects of retreats and education in spirituality. She credits much of her insight into spiritual formation to the influential mentorship of Henry Nowan, who played a pivotal role in shaping her perspective and approach in this domain.

Marjorie's story is one of listening to her inner voice and having the courage to pursue her true calling, resulting in a ministry of a different kind—a testament to the varied and personal journeys that those called to serve may take.

Send your questions and feedback to [email protected].

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00:00 "Caregiver conversation with Marjorie Thompson, ordained minister"

06:18 Mother and stepdad needed care; building new home.

09:53 Physical challenges of caregiving for elderly and disabled.

11:25 Grateful for shared strength in caregiving challenges.

14:40 Feeling divine strength in moments of need.

18:22 Calmly explaining fire after her misinterpretation.

21:58 Caring for husband with Parkinson's, finding appreciation.

24:37 Appreciation, care, and recognition in changing relationships.

28:56 Beautiful story inspires empathy and self-reflection.

31:44 Caring and compassion: entering into others' suffering.

36:47 Deacons support community for disabled man.

40:18 Insight into parents dealing with medical issues.

41:20 Finding strength through caregiving in difficult times.

46:35 Carry God's presence, bless and love others.

48:39 Grounding through touch, breath, and simple actions.

54:36 Admit needs, be there, ask for help.

56:01 Grateful for support and caregiving resources available.