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Presence: A Pastor's Guide to Funerals
Presence: A Pastor's Guide to Funerals explores bereavement ministry by helping pastors apply their theological convictions to particular situations. Lifelong ministry practitioners will appreciate the reminder of the theological foundation that undergirds ministry actions. New pastors will find value in the "quick start" hints found in the practical applications. Presence provides numerous examples of the significant role played by pastors through which God comforts those walking in the valley dark with death.
185 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
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May 29, 2015
Full Disclosure: I am the editor for the series this text is a part of, and contributed two chapters to the book.
As a new minister, it can often be difficult to find practical, nuts-and-bolts type advice on how to navigate the landscape of doing actual ministry. While the classroom setting can provide a good theological basis for the practice of pastoral ministry, a clergyperson in the midst of everyday pastoral life does not always have the time - or the wherewithal - to synthesize theory into practice. Presence offers a practical how-to guide for conducting a funeral in a manner which is meaningful for those grieving and consistent with the minister's theological convictions.
Jonathan K. Twitchell is an ordained pastor who has spent several years as a funeral chaplain. His experience conducting many funerals has given him a lot of insight into the various challenges which can arise while trying to work with family and loved ones in constructing a service which honors the deceased, the family, and God.
The book does have some limitations, which are all-but guaranteed in an undertaking of this sort. Because the text attempts to bridge the gap between theology and praxis, Twitchell has to take concrete positions on certain matters which more theoretical works can avoid. His commitment to Wesleyan theology, belief in the resurrection of the body, and conviction that he is responsible to honor God in all funerals (regardless of the religious affiliation of the deceased or the bereaved) are things which permeate the entire book. As such, this book is best suited for people who share those convictions and may not easily translate into other theological systems. Still, the core message of the text is one with which nearly every minister or other funeral officiant can identify: at the heart of ministering to those who have lost a loved one is being present with them, sharing in their grief.
As a new minister, it can often be difficult to find practical, nuts-and-bolts type advice on how to navigate the landscape of doing actual ministry. While the classroom setting can provide a good theological basis for the practice of pastoral ministry, a clergyperson in the midst of everyday pastoral life does not always have the time - or the wherewithal - to synthesize theory into practice. Presence offers a practical how-to guide for conducting a funeral in a manner which is meaningful for those grieving and consistent with the minister's theological convictions.
Jonathan K. Twitchell is an ordained pastor who has spent several years as a funeral chaplain. His experience conducting many funerals has given him a lot of insight into the various challenges which can arise while trying to work with family and loved ones in constructing a service which honors the deceased, the family, and God.
The book does have some limitations, which are all-but guaranteed in an undertaking of this sort. Because the text attempts to bridge the gap between theology and praxis, Twitchell has to take concrete positions on certain matters which more theoretical works can avoid. His commitment to Wesleyan theology, belief in the resurrection of the body, and conviction that he is responsible to honor God in all funerals (regardless of the religious affiliation of the deceased or the bereaved) are things which permeate the entire book. As such, this book is best suited for people who share those convictions and may not easily translate into other theological systems. Still, the core message of the text is one with which nearly every minister or other funeral officiant can identify: at the heart of ministering to those who have lost a loved one is being present with them, sharing in their grief.
Displaying 1 of 1 review