W. Kenneth Williams, retired pastor, First Baptist Church of Rochester, NY

This book is a meeting place of science and theology, traditional culture and recent innovations, religious rituals and emotional need. But it is, first and foremost, a personal testimony offered in compelling story. It is Mark Anthony’s story, and his ruminations about life, loss, rituals surrounding death, and the emotional connections that build and support human community Readers from all walks of life will be enriched, and communities will be strengthened, and healing of the bereaved will take place because Mark Anthony has chosen to tell his story.

W. Kenneth Williams, retired pastor, First Baptist Church of Rochester, NY, and Chaplain Emeritus, Brighton Fire Department, Brighton, NY. Williams has served as grief counselor in pastoral practice and as critical incident stress management consultant for emergency services. He resides in Durham, North Carolina.