Grief: Contemporary Theory and the Practice of Ministry

The experience of grief has been a source of intrigue and curiosity throughout history, and it continues to stimulate thought and theory in various fields of study. Unfortunately, these fields tend to function in isolation from each other. The result is a substantial disconnect between grief research, theory, and careÂwhich has evolved greatly over the last two decadesÂand ministerial practice.

Using a metaphor of grief as a mosaic, Melissa Kelley presents contemporary grief theory and research, integrated with important theological, religious, and ministerial perspectives. Written in an accessible way for ministers, ministers-in-training, and all pastoral and spiritual caregivers, this book provides the most up-to-date theory and research in grief to help inform their care of others. Through exploration of critical topics including attachment to God, meaning making, and religious coping in grief, readers are brought right to the heart of a contemporary understanding of grief.

• Creating a Healthier Church: Family Systems Theory, Leadership and Congregational Life (Creative Pastoral Care and Counseling Series)
• All Our Losses, All Our Griefs: Resources for Pastoral Care
• Grounded in the Living Word: The Old Testament and Pastoral Care Practices
• Pastoral Care: Telling the Stories of Our Lives
• Lament for a Son
• Cultivating Wholeness: A Guide To Care And Counseling In Faith Communities
• The Good Funeral: Death, Grief, and the Community of Care
• Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy, Fifth Edition: A Handbook for the Mental Health Practitioner - Grief Counseling Handbook on Treatment of Grief, Loss and Bereavement, Book and Free eBook
• Care for the Dying: A Practical and Pastoral Guide
• Loss, Trauma, and Resilience: Therapeutic Work With Ambiguous Loss