Dying and Death: A Resource for Christian Reflection Waters, Brent

A guide developed in response to resolutions adopted by the United Church of Christ explores the theological, historical, and ethical aspects of death and dying

Written as a guide for local congregations, to be used by "Christians who do not need to be told what to think about dying and death but can perhaps benefit from some assistance in how to think about this issue," this is a book that will serve its intended audience well. The language is simple and direct, but the discussion is never simplistic. Waters gives an excellent overview of ethical theory without drifting into technically theoretical language, and he outlines a theological framework that is both historically grounded and accessible to nontheologians. Although the book is a specific response to resolutions on dying and death adopted by the United Church of Christ, it is not an official document, and its usefulness is not limited to UCC congregations. The appendix on resources and the bibliography are rich sources for readers who wish to pursue the issues in more depth. Steve Schroeder