How do we accompany the soul when the mind begins to fade?

Dementia is part of every community, and as Spiritual Directors, we are increasingly likely to encounter its impact; whether walking alongside someone with advancing dementia, or accompanying family, friends, or caregivers as they navigate shifting realities. This workshop invites us to explore the changing patterns dementia brings, both in the lives of those we accompany and in our own understanding of presence and connection.

We’ll explore how lament and celebration can coexist, how presence matters more than answers, and how faith journeys affected by dementia are not solely stories of decline. Rather, they open us to new expressions of grace. Themes like changing patterns and making meaning, crossing the bridge into deeper presence, and remembering the person through compassionate teamwork will ground our shared reflection. 

This session will also offer practical tools for remaining present in the face of ambiguity, confusion, and loss. We’ll ask what helps us stay attuned to “the music behind the words” - the heart language of those we accompany. Whether you’re already accompanying someone affected by dementia or are seeking to grow in awareness, this workshop will help to equip you to offer non-anxious, grounded presence, and to find grace in the midst of the unknown.

Sarah Thorpe

Sarah Thorpe worked in law for 30 years, as a solicitor in London and Birmingham and then in teaching and professional support.  In 2008, Sarah’s father was diagnosed with dementia and the family learned new dance steps together, staying in step through advancing dementia, at home and later in residential care, until his death in 2018.   After redundancy, since 2014, Sarah has worked as the Dementia-Friendly Church Enabler in the Diocese of Lichfield and also with ChaplaincyPlus, a Christian support network for people working in Birmingham. Sarah has offered spiritual accompaniment since 2011.  Sarah values contemplative prayer and silence, as well as Ignatian spirituality.  She loves faith that’s rooted in life and community.   Sarah and Chris have been married for 37 years. Chris is a vicar and they have lived in Letchworth, Walsall, Wolverhampton and now Shifnal in Shropshire.  Their two children, Sophie and Jake, are in their mid-20s. 

Date: Friday 5 June

When: 10:00- 15:00 GMT

Where: Online

Cost: £60 Non Members, £48 Members

FAQ

• How do I get the Zoom Link?

  After booking your event you’ll receive an automatic confirmation email that contains your unique Zoom link. Please check your inbox (and spam folder, just in case) for this email.

  You will also receive a reminder email 48 hours before the event and one hour before.

  You do not need a Zoom account to join. On the day of the event, simply click the Zoom link in your confirmation email. This will open the Zoom app or website, where you’ll be able to join the event. Be sure to log in a few minutes early to make sure everything is set up!

• How do I access Handouts?

  Handouts, if provided, will be shared with you via a link in both your confirmation and reminder emails. The link will direct you to a folder in Google Drive where you can download the materials. To download the handouts:

  1. Click the link in your email to access the folder.

  2. Once in the folder, find the documents listed.

  3. Click on the document you want to download and look for the "Download" option (usually in the top-right corner of the screen).

  4. Select Download, and the file will be saved to your device.

  5. Any handouts made available after the event will be added to this folder.

  We strive to provide handouts for each event that it is appropriate for, but please note that some speakers may not provide them. If handouts are available, they will be uploaded to the folder at least 48 hours before the event. Be sure to check the folder ahead of time to ensure you have everything you need!

• Can I reschedule or cancel?

  Yes, you can reschedule your booking through the confirmation email. Just click the "Reschedule" link and choose a new time. Please note that rescheduling is subject to availability.

  To cancel your booking, simply follow the link in your confirmation email and you’ll find an option to cancel your appointment. Cancellations and refunds are only available before the event starts.

• What should I do if I experience technical difficulties on the day of the event?

  If you’re having trouble joining the event, first try checking your internet connection or restarting your Zoom app. If issues persist, please contact us immediately via email at info@lcsd.org.uk, and we’ll try to help troubleshoot or provide an alternative solution.

• How do I apply my member's discount or redeem a package?

  • Click on the “Book” button on the page.

  • Enter your personal information (name, email, etc.) and click “Continue to Payment” button.

  • On the payment page, fill in your payment details.

  • Under “Order Summary” you’ll see a field labelled “Package, gift, or coupon code”

  • Enter your code and click Apply.

  • Once applied, you should see your 20% member discount reflected in the total amount.

  • Follow the prompts to finalise your payment and booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details of your event.