Finding a Sacred Oasis in Grief : A Resource Manual for Pastoral Care Givers

This work includes a foreword by John D Morgan, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Coordinator for Kings College Center for Education about Death and Bereavement, Ontario, Canada. This practical resource guides the reader though all aspects of the grieving process and offers thought-provoking and inspirational advice on support. With exercises, tips, and contacts for further assistance, "Finding a Sacred Oasis in Grief" provides a comprehensive understanding of this potentially difficult and complex topic. It examines different types of grief and various approaches, along with reference guides to particular religions and their traditions adopting a comprehensive, multi-faith approach. Pastoral care providers and religious leaders will find the unique, hands-on approach invaluable, as will members of support organisations and volunteer carers. It is also ideal for seminary and ministry students, counsellors, therapists and other care professionals. "Gives caregivers the tools to help dying and grieving persons face the best and worst that life has to offer. It is the worst, because death means the end of the attachments that make life worthwhile. It is the best, because it shows us what is truly meaningful and important in life. Mortality is a great gift if we have the knowledge and the courtesy to face it." - John D Morgan, in the Foreword. Content: Front Cover Contents Foreword About the Authors Acknowledgments Spirituality is Like a River Flowing Introduction 1. Pastoral Care: Grounded in Being 2. A Ministry of Presence with the Bereaved 3. Grief: An Anthology 4. When a Baby Dies: The Loss of a Dream 5. When a Loved One Dies, Children Play and Cry 6. Adolescents: Grief 's In-Between Generation 7. Men and Women: Do They Grieve the Same? 8. Living With Suicide: A Grief Like No Other 9. Stages of Grief: Fact or Fiction? 10. Where is God? 11. Is There Life After Death For Me? 12. Diversity of Beliefs About End-of-Life Issues Among Differing Religions 13. What About Final Arrangements? 14. Rituals: A Necessity For Healthy Grief 15. Concluding Words Appendix A: Suggestions To Those Who Plan My Funeral Appendix B: Where To Find Help Sources Cited Recommended Reading Back Cover. Aimed at pastoral care providers, counsellors, therapists and other health professionals as well as students, this is a practical manual suitable for all carers