Joellyn's introductory course on Death Midwifery explained for me what creating "sacred space" for the dying meant. We explored the process of dying and becoming an integral part of that sacred experience and how it can promote a more peaceful transition. I am now applying this wonderful and spiritual knowledge by volunteering and find it one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done. Thank you Joellyn.
- Sharon S.
DEATH MIDWIFERY PUBLICATIONS
The Art of Death Midwifery : An Introduction and Beginner's Guide
by Joellyn St. Pierre, D. Div.
Our society does not do death well. Past civilizations and cultures engaged highly developed systems designed around caring for the terminally ill and easing them through the process of dying, whereas modern cultures tend to hide from death and sequester the dying.
"The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner's Guide" is USA Book News' 2009 National Best Book Awards Winner in the death and dying category. Read the press release. Buy the book.
In Joellyn St. Pierre’s beautifully crafted The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner’s Guide, the author―who left a lengthy and successful entertainment career to become an ordained minister and dedicate her life and her skills to the dying―removes the veil of mystery that has long shrouded the care of the dying.
Physicians, hospice workers, social workers, families, everyone who cares for and gives support to the dying, will learn that death midwifery, a way of communing with the dying, is a balm for those transitioning from this life into what awaits them.
This manual is designed to impart those skills and disciplines required to improve the ability to be a more effective guide. From the mythology of death to preparing to give support, from understanding how to create a spiritual sanctuary to being comfortable with how one speaks to those in transition, this is an important and effective book. Through it, helpmates learn that while they may think they have great power over the dying, it is the dying who must feel empowered.
With empowerment, the author reminds us, comes the peaceful sense of a life fulfilled. When this is achieved, passage becomes not a tragedy of death, but a celebration of life.