Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Hospital visitation is never easy. Bringing comfort and concern to the bedside of someone who is sick or dying is difficult for lay people and clergy alike. In this practical guide, based on many years of experience as a hospital chaplain, Neville Kirkwood shares his wisdom about the art of visitation.
In non-technical language, Kirkwood helps lay and clergy visitors understand what actions, words, and practices may be helpful versus harmful. He guides readers through the temptations visitors face -- attempts to problem-solve, to talk too much, to be too personal or not personal enough -- and provides them with a theology of visitation that can guide their efforts to help patients and friends. A variety of exercises and a section of prayers for very specific circumstances one might encounter in the hospital make this a must-have resource for all who work with the sick and dying.