Holistic models of cancer and palliative care frequently refer to spirituality as an important element. But what do we mean when we talk about spirituality and how do we provide spiritual care? This book sets out an understanding of this complex domain, describing how spirituality is experienced and expressed, and looks at the impact of terminal illness. The author argues that if we are to recognize spirituality as a significant aspect of living and dying then care providers must develop an interesting, consistent and effective approach. Therefore issues of training, policy and practice all need to be addressed. Spirituality is often represented as the fourth pillar of palliative care, and yet it is often the least developed area in terms of both theory and practice. Originating from the author's clinical and teaching experience, this book aims to explore the concepts, issues and practical implications of spirituality in care.

This book examines the services that chaplains provide to dying patients and the unique relationship that palliative care staff construct with people at the end of life. It explores the nature of hope when faced with the inevitable and develops a theory of spiritual care rooted in relationship that has implications for all healthcare professionals.

Whether you are a hospice professional, relative, or volunteer, this book will be of value to you in servicing the patient or your loved one as they approach their transition. Raymond Moody, MD, author of Life After Life Soul Service speaks to the medical professional, lay person, dying person and family member about treating the dying from a holistic perspective. It provides a detailed navigation to spiritual and complementary care, as well as examines the phenomenon of metaphysical experiences at death. This book offers ideas on how to honor your loved ones passing and assists with the process of how to choose the best hospice. Soul Service highlights the voices of medical professionals working from the highest level of service. It serves as a useful resource guide to the myriad organizations that are currently available to assist with the dying process.

“It is well with my Soul, is a thoughtful, comprehensive book on spiritual care for the dying. Dr. White lifts his knowledge and prose with his innate and acquired humility, kindness and compassion. I have worked with him for years and appreciate his open heart and generous nature. How fortunate that he took time to give us his wisdom as he has done so many times for my patients at the bedside.” Kathleen Murphy BS MD FAAHPM Palliative Care Consult Service Assistant Professor, Oakland University William Beaumont Medical School William Beaumont Hospital , Royal Oak , Michigan “At times it seems easier to deal with the physical aspects of death and dying rather than confronting the spiritual health of a hospice patient. Dr. White has given me a new tool box to provide spiritual comfort to someone facing death and to their family and caregivers. Every hospice clinician should carry a copy of, “It is well with my soul” in their medical bag and every caregiver should have a copy on their nightstand to read and reflect on each day.” Fran Adamski , RN Hospice Clinical Manager “It is well with my soul, speaks to both chaplains and social worker issues. The information addressed by Dr. White is helpful and informative. I feel I will be able to put to use his findings in my practice as a hospice social worker.” Sandra Goldberg, LMSW Hospice Social Worker “There is not enough literature on Hospice Spiritual Assessment and Spiritual Care for the dying. It is well with my soul, is a pioneering work that provides a comprehensive Hospice Spiritual Assessment and essential information on Spiritual Care for the terminally ill. I highly recommend that every hospice chaplain, grief counselor, volunteer and pastor use this important resource as they serve the terminally ill.” Rev. Dana Darby, M.Div. Hospice Manager of Chaplains, Bereavement and Volunteer Coordinator “It is well with my soul, is a manual, an awesome tool and contribution to those who either work or care for the terminally ill. It enables the hospice chaplain , clergy , social worker and others to gain insight , information and knowledge that is important to the dying person and enhances their relationship , their belief system and bring them peace.” Rev. Ingrid Ingram, D.Min. Hospice Chaplain “The spiritual meditations in, It is well with my soul, were a source of comfort and brought joy inside my tears. This book will be a great success. You wait and see.” L.M. Hospice patient

At times we may be called to be companions on a journey we would rather not take--the journey of a loved one toward the end of life. For those who choose to serve as close companions of terminally ill relatives or friends, Parting offers the collective wisdom of people from many cultures and faith traditions as a "travel guide" for meaningful companionship--helping someone toward a peaceful transition from this life. Sections of the book discuss how to cross the bridge from ordinary conversation to spiritual reflection; how to provide comforts for the body, mind, and soul; and how to care for yourself while concentrating on the needs of another. Transcending any specific religion or culture, this handbook addresses universal spiritual needs. Designed for easy reading by weary travelers, this practical, pocket-sized guide prepares the spiritual companion for an enriching experience, even on the journey toward life's end. It is an indispensable tool for family members and friends, hospice workers, religious leaders, counselors, and medical providers.

Psychological, social, and spiritual care is as important as physical care at the end of life. Yet caregivers often feel ill-equipped to give that nonphysical care. This book shows how to do it. The book addresses all caregivers who attend dying patients: doctors, nurses, chaplains, clergy in the pastorate, social workers, clinical psychologists, family caregivers, and others. It covers such topics as the functional and emotional trajectories of dying; the varied approaches of patients and caregivers to end-of-life decisions; culturally based beliefs about dying; the differences between depression and grief; and people’s views about the right time to die, the death experience itself, and the afterlife. For each topic the book introduces core concepts and summarizes recent research about them. The book presents much of its material in readable tables for easy reference; applies the material to real-life cases; lists the main “take home” points for each chapter; and gives references for additional reading. The book helps caregivers anticipate the reactions of patients and survivors to end-of-life traumas and suggests how caregivers can respond insightfully and compassionately. At the same time the book challenges caregivers to think through their own views about death and dying. This book, therefore, is a must-read for all caregivers―professional and nonprofessional alike―who strive to give their patients comprehensive, high-quality end-of-life care.