Description
Book SynopsisThis work addresses how funerals may be created which are not only relevant for the bereaved, but which also have theological integrity. The majority of the British population no longer attend church yet when bereaved, many still turn to church representatives to perform funerals for their loved ones. This book addresses how funerals may be created which are not only relevant for the bereaved, but also have theological integrity. A paradigm shift in the manner by which funerals are constructed is proposed - from imposing alien liturgies to creating a unique ritual which evolves from the meeting of the stories of the bereaved and that of the ritual leader. The argument for the co-construction of funerals is informed by contemporary models of grief and Kelly's own experience with bereaved parents.Co-construction is a process which is centred on listening and empowering, and involves offering the bereaved choices from a range of ritual resources to help them shape their funeral's content. Such a process facilitates sensitive regulation of grief in an age where its privatisation has meant the bereaved are often bereft of a means by which to benchmark their feelings, behaviour and decision making.
Trade ReviewMention -Book News, November 2008
Review in Church Times, February 2009
"...the possibility should be offered and planned for, if we take the research and insights of this book as seriously as it deserves." Theology, November 2009
Table of Contents1. Introduction; 2. The postmodern context and the recognition of a need for ritual; 3. Grieving in a postmodern era; 4. Being and doing in the pastoral and spiritual care of the bereaved; 5. Ritualising death - formal and informal moments; 6. Co-construction - meeting spiritual needs and facilitating grief; 7. Co-construction - opportunities for the church; 8. Paradigm shifts; Appendix: Ritual resources - sacred and secular.
