From cradle to grave: the relevance of a theology of natality for a theology of death and dying and pastoral care in the church

Hurd, Jennifer Anne (2014). From cradle to grave: the relevance of a theology of natality for a theology of death and dying and pastoral care in the church. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis explores the relevance of a theology of natality for a theology of death and dying and pastoral care in the church. The concept of natality is drawn from the work of Grace M Jantzen and is characterised by beauty, creativity, newness, flourishing and birth.

Following a survey of theological and pastoral approaches to death and dying, natality is expounded and the feminist practical theology research methodology employed described. Data from semi-structured interviews conducted with hospital chaplains, clinical staff, palliative care patients and their relatives/friends, coded according to Jantzen’s main features of natality of embodiment, engenderment, relationality and hope, is then presented and discussed.

The data analysis shows that natality is strongly relevant to theology and pastoral care in death and dying, and, contrary to Jantzen, its most significant feature for research participants is not hope but, rather, relationality, as a vital source of hope. This indicates the importance of relationality for pastoral theology and care. Reflection upon this leads to the offering of holding as a metaphor for such theology and pastoral practice, and the recognition of the potential value of further qualitative research surrounding the concept of natality.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):