After two decades as pastor in the same church and several years as a hospital chaplain, Paul Tautges believes he has been exposed to far more grief and death than the average pastor. This book is his attempt to share what he’s learned with those given the responsibility and privilege of ministering to grieving people. This is not a book of gushy sentimentality however. Tautges realises that not all comfort is true comfort. He nails his colours to the mast early on: ‘Christ centred comfort is the only true comfort’ – anything else is temporary at best and deceptive at worst. In fact, at times of grief we must make death a servant of God’s purposes by seizing opportunities to gently speak the truth and redirect people to focus on eternal matters. Before getting into the practical side of things, the author begins with the spiritual foundations of comfort – which would be helpful for ministering to those dealing with anxiety/worry as well as grief. With that foundation laid, Tautges can move on to the practical, including a sample 16 month – 3 year plan for ongoing comfort once the funeral is over, and a chapter on letter writing.
The shorter second part of the book contains sample sermons (not quite so helpful, but might give a few ideas) as well as help for structuring a funeral. It is a sad comment on today’s church that none of his sample orders of service or appendix on ‘poetry, songs and prayers’ includes the singing of psalms. Apart from that it’s a helpful little book, but we’ll let Henry Cooke conclude:

“The most pious productions of uninspired men are a shallow stream; the Psalms are unfathomable and shoreless ocean. I was long in favour of paraphrases and hymns of human composure in the worship of God; but now I have learnt that nothing will do for a sinking soul in a dying hour but the Psalms of David”.

Thanks to Zondervan for providing a review copy.

As a Pastor this book has been very helpful personally to me. One of the most difficult challenges of pastoral ministry is coming alongside those who are grieving and attempting to give them comfort. I think this book should be read by everyone in ministry and anyone who is thinking entering into pastoral ministry. Tautges book is one I will refer to again and again in my ministry.

Very helpful, practical bible basked book. I was impressed right off with a reference to Jeremiah 29:11 in context, as a promise to the exiled nation of Isreal! There is so much comfort for believers, but this book does not say all is good, as he points out also what comforts cause harm or false hope. I disagree with this pastor though that he directs this book only to pastors as shepherds, but person to person ministry is something needed of every believer, not just those being paid or have a position to do so. Thankfully, this book is helpful to all. Read and benefit from its truths!