The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner's Guide

by Joellyn St. Pierre DDiv

*Winner of the 2009 National Best Books Award for best book on death and dying*

The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner’s Guide, by ordained interfaith minister Joellyn St. Pierre, is a compelling and comprehensive manual for family, clergy, hospice volunteers, or medical staff engaged in the field of death and dying. In this poetic and powerful book, the author reminds us that society has thrown a veil of mystery over the process of death, thereby depriving the dying from the dignified and fearless departure they so deserve. Based on the tenet that death is neither the enemy nor a finite state, St. Pierre gives all helpmates the necessary tools to become a death midwife. That is, someone capable of acting as a spiritual guide as the dying transition from this life into what awaits them after death. Unlike many books on death and dying, this guide is leading-edge, based on the author’s long experience both in lay and clergy. It is a sensitive and lyrical reminder that the dying deserve to feel empowered as they leave this life.

Genres: Death

272 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2009

Reviews

[Isobel Baxter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely incredible, insightful and inspirational read...very moving and hard to put down...I read this in less than two days for that very reason...very important work being done by Joellyn and many others...highly recommended read for anyone considering this path, anyone facing the loss of a loved one and anyone with a fear of death...everyone would benefit from reading this book...something that faces us all...I personally can not bare the thought of anyone passing from this life into the next alone and very much look forward to the day when it becomes the norm for all to have a special guide on their last journey! We have midwives when we enter this world so why not also when we exit...loved ones are often too distraught and distracted by the many emotions they face at what is often a very difficult time and I believe it must be a huge comfort to all concerned to have this kind of support!

[Alecia Veach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resources in the back for further study. A good basic introduction to the field and overview of experiences.

[Lisa]

Great book I'm so glad I read this book. I'm a new EOLD I found this book very helpful.

[Joellyn Pierre]

Doctor of interfaith Divinity and 18-year death midwife St. Pierre introduces the practice of assisting the dying as they transition from the physical world to the nonphysical. The book serves as a guide for professionals who frequently encounter death: nurses, hospice workers, etc., as well as those preparing to serve someone close to them during the last days. St. Pierre stresses the ability to sit with acceptance and love in the presence of pain and suffering and to honor the choices and belief systems of the patients. She also teaches methods of matching their states of consciousness to stay connected throughout the experience. Allowing for patients' different backgrounds, the author includes prayers, breathing and meditation techniques from various spiritual traditions as proper preparation for the role as conduit for divine energy and of the creation of a sacred space. A brief discussion of brainwave frequencies and the 13 phases of death--charted as "the Deathing Spectrum"--help to demystify the process, as do stories from St. Pierre's years of personal experience. Her tales of communication from beyond the grave may compromise her credibility for some, despite the bit of scientific support she gives for communication with the unseen world. References to death guides from myth and religion build appreciation for her profession, but it is when the author describes the intimate loss of loved ones (dogs, parents and best friends) that she connects readers on an intimate level with gritty, nearly uncomfortable emotion. An essential read for those ready to offer time, love and service during the big transition. --Kirkus Discoveries

[JHM · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book, providing both theoretical background and practical information on the practice of death midwifery. Author St. Pierre does a nice job of balancing personal narrative with how-to information, simultaneously encouraging those interested in this path in trusting their instincts *and* making sure they have the proper preparation to truly be of service to others.

This is not a path for everyone, but if you do feel called to minister to the dying in this way, this book will be an excellent resource.

[Jen · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was awful. Sheer, unadulterated hell for the 2 pages I managed to endure.

Unprofessional. Focusing on channeling light. Dedicated to a deceased canine, who has not one but _two_ entries in the index.

Do not waste your money.

[Glenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent information.