Bluffton author Ruth Naylor says that her original intent for writing her memoir was to share her personal faith stories with family and friends.

However, at a Christian writers’ conference she was urged to expand the potential audience.

To do that she provided questions at the end of each chapter, helping readers think about their own experiences and share their stories informally with others or in small groups.

She aims to achieve that in “Faith Talk: a spiritual memoir inviting reflection and dialogue,” published by WestBow Press.

Prior to being an author, Naylor served as a teacher, poet, pastor and spiritual director.

After a mid-life career change, she studied at two seminaries and completed a two-year course with Shalem Institute for Spiritual Guidance. Her poetry has appeared in many periodicals and has won a number of awards.

Naylor’s stories, vulnerably told, begin with her concept of God and prayer as a child, then progress through many of life’s challenges and opportunities for growth.

She writes about important life choices, her teaching career and her call to be a pastor and spiritual director.

The book includes thoughtful preparation for death and includes the story of the death of her husband, Stanley, in 2015 after their 61 years of marriage.

“I want readers to have a growing recognition of God's presence, availability, and providential activity in their own lives and in the lives of those around them,” Naylor said about the book.

In Bluffton, the book is available at the Bluffton Senior Center, Bluffton University bookstore, The Black Lab and Book Reviews. It is also available at Hallmark Stores in Lima, Findlay, St. Marys and Piqua and on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.

The book is available in soft cover, hard cover and as an E- book. To order the book online Click Here.