1st Edition
Reflections on Death, Dying and Bereavement A Manual for Clergy, Counsellors and Speakers
The methodology of "Reflections on Death, Dying and Bereavement" is mainly philosophical. It is intended to complement scriptural and theological studies. The volume has five main sections that are further divided by chapter. The first section contains foundational considerations. Since the belief in a continuation of life after death or reunion with deceased loved ones offers consolation to many people, the book examines the possibility of human immortality. Various rational arguments are also presented.
Introduction
CHAPTER 1
Human Immortality
Supplementary Texts
CHAPTER 2
The Problem of Evil and Human Suffering
Supplementary Texts
CHAPTER 3
Reflections of Philosophers, Novelists, Poets, and Other Writers on Life, Death, and Immortality
Theistic Philosophers
Atheistic/Agnostic Philosophers
Pagan Philosophers
Novelists, Poets, and Other Writers
CHAPTER 4
Grief and Bereavement
Death of a Husband
Death of a Wife
Death of a Child
Death of a Parent
Death of a Sibling
Suggested Readings
Supplementary Texts
Conclusion
Appendix I. Suicide and Euthanasia
Supplementary Texts
Appendix II. The Hospice Movement
Appendix III. The Funeral Director
Bibliography
Index
Biography
William Smith
