All Souls’ Day at the start of November may make a lot of people think about funerals that they have known in their own families. It seems not to be uncommon for people to experience funerals which do not fully satisfy those who attend them. This book is an attempt to make something better out of a service which is always of the utmost significance and the details of which will often be remembered down the years.
Hugh James studied funeral practises for a higher degree from the University of Wales, so he has had much time to think about what he says. He is also a parish priest in Wales getting involved in the day to day business of looking after people when someone has died. This book is an attempt to ask what (and who) a funeral is for and also an attempt to tentatively suggest some strategies for remember well those who have died.
This is a wise, sensitive and caring publication. At a time when death is beginning to be talked about more than it has been so in the past, it deserves a wide readership. Suitable for clergy, lay readers, undertakers, pastoral carers, counsellors and anyone dealing with people who are bereaved. Helpful appendices give a lot of information about support groups, liturgical resources and contact details for those who deal with death.
Published in inspires, the magazine of the Scottish Episcopal Church
The Queer Bible Commentary – Book Review
This book brings together the work of many different writers who are known for their interest in the area of gender, sexuality and Biblical Studies. Whilst the Anglican Communion ties itself in knots over one gay bishop, gay theologians, writers and pastors are at work all over the world reading biblical texts in both radically orthodox and in radically new ways. It is clear within this work that the authors of the articles presented here have a fascination with the biblical witnesses and a commitment to engage deeply with the biblical texts.
Each book of the bible has its own chapter in this commentary, with the chapters on the larger books subdivided to allow different voices to engage with different aspects of the texts. Of particular note is the gentle enquiry into the motives of Saul/Paul of Tarsus. This is no better expressed than by Robert Goss who questions just exactly what it was that Saul/Paul was feeling as he held the cloaks of the mob who stoned beautiful Stephen, who had the face of an angel.
In method and mood, this book owes a great debt to feminist scholarship, a debt that is freely acknowledged. Alternate and diverse readings of texts abound. This is theology that is challenging, subversive and above all playful. It is unusual to find such a serious theological work which contains so much humour.
There is no doubt that the title of this commentary is a provocative one. The title alone will divide potential readers. The text itself is highly recommended reading for anyone not put off by the title. It is essential reading for anyone who is.
Click here to buy from Amazon
Tagged With: Inspires, LGBT, Queer Biblet Commentary
Leave a Comment