The follow-up to Why All People Suffer by Catholic theologian Paul Chaloux concentrates on the natural and spiritual concerns encountered in fading and death. This emotionally charged and theologically rich book will speak to your heart's demands, whether you are confronting terminal illness, caring for a dying loved one, or lamenting a loss. Dr. Chaloux uses his personal experiences with Parkinson's disease and the dying and death experiences of his family members spanning four generations, to make sense of and provide answers to the natural and theological questions most people have concerning the end of a life.
In the first section of the book, the theology of suffering and mortality is presented. You will learn how crucial they are to God's grand plan for the universe, Providence, and why everyone must suffer and perish. You will also see how God can use even the most horrifying tragedies to bring salvation to those who suffer them and to others.
The second section examines death and dying from the perspective of the dying, offering advice on how to make the most of your remaining time and energy to develop affection and strengthen your relationships with God and others. Dr. Chaloux masterfully discusses both spiritual preparations and practical decisions, ranging from healthcare decisions to final wishes, and provides a seven-point inventory for the deceased to consider.
The third section illustrates aging and death from a surviving relative's perspective. It describes typical causes of death, the five requirements of the dying, and the role of caregivers, with a focus on "tough" cases such as dementia, suicide, and the loss of a spouse, parent, child, or other close relative.
Significantly, you will discover why remembering God's attributes will strengthen your faith in His affection for you.
You will also learn:
- A review of the Four Ultimate Things and their significance to existence
- Why suffering is an integral element of the aging process and why everyone must eventually perish
- The four duties of suffering that lead to salvation from iniquity
- How to acquire the only currency that transcends heaven and earth; how redemptive suffering and death can lead to mercy and happiness.
Dying Without Fear will illuminate your perspective on suffering and death, as well as the relationship between God and man, so that you can approach the final things without dread and help your loved ones attain calm on this voyage.
Paperback. 240 pages.
Nihil Obstat: Very Rev. Francis de Ros, Censor Deputatus
Imprimatur: +Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington, March 20, 2023