Art of Dying Well

This book will help you face your own death with courage and faith. Some simple things can help ease your mind and bring peace to your heart. Much of the book is written in the first-person singular to help you personalise your reflections. There are many prompts for you to write in a notebook or journal your reflections and memories of significant people, places and events in your life, and ideas for your funeral. Dip into the book where and when you want, pondering only one or two paragraphs at a time. It includes readings and meditations from a wide range of perspectives and faith traditions.Praise for The Art of Dying Well: "To those who reflectively read these pages as they knowingly approach the completion of their lives, and their death, Ian Kilgour has offered a map and a compass.There is realism, compassion and inclusiveness in what he offers in this text-The Art of Dying Well. Not only that, he offers the wisdom and inspiration of others, as well as his own.When we all harvest our experiences, offer thanks for all that has been and what we have learnt, then we can say a confident 'Yes' to whatever lies ahead, including death, where an embrace of undying Love awaits us."Bishop Bruce Gilberd CNZM, S.Th., B.Sc.Former Bishop of Auckland"Working in the pastoral care team environment of a retirement village, a need was identified for a resource that could offer people a pathway to help them face their fears about aging, illness and death.Ian's writings allow people, to reflectively examine their lives and prepare for their final journey in a positive and hopeful way. His writings come from the heart and personal experience supported by inspirational writings, poetry and verse from throughout history and from all faith traditions and none.The format Ian has chosen allows for those who may be struggling with concentration to absorb sections at their own pace and in whatever order they choose."Patsy Cochrane, Chaplain, St Andrew's VillageAbout the author: Ian Kilgour is a Salvation Army officer and Christian minister with wide experience in pastoral care and the deeply human issues we all struggle with. Although now retired, he remains actively involved in church, chaplaincy, community and social justice work. After a serious health event that caused him to face his own mortality, he gathered together the reflections that comprise this book-a work in which he was encouraged and assisted by the people of his home congregation, St. Heliers Presbyterian Church in Auckland.Ian believes that everyone has the capacity to find meaning in life, to deepen their spirituality, and to become all they can be. He has an inclusive understanding of life in which everything and everyone is interconnected and of immense value. Ian dedicates this publication to those whom he has had the privilege of laying to rest.