Reviewed by Ben Boland
3 MINUTE READ
From Luke’s Journal May 2025 | Vol. 30 No. 1 | MIMBY
Dr Megan Best requires no introduction to Australian medical professionals as her work and research in bioethics, palliative care and spirituality mean she is a world-renowned authority. Her most recent book, ‘Spiritual Care in Palliative Care: What it is and Why it Matters’ (SCiPC), is core reading for spiritual and medical care professionals.
The reason for this bold claim is not simply that SCiPC covers advances in research and practice, but because anyone involved in spiritual or medical care will have some involvement with palliative care.
As an aged care chaplain, palliative care has been a core part of my role for over fifteen years, and therefore, I actively engage in professional development in this area. Yet, SCiPC challenged my thinking and practice in several key areas. Even if palliative care isn’t a core part of your work, SCiPC is a valuable resource to consult when needed.
“Each chapter is written by different authors who bring both research and experience to bear.”
SCiPC is designed to be consulted. It is divided into eight sections, each of which has three or more chapters. Each chapter is written by different authors who bring both research and experience to bear. This structure makes SCiPC easy to read, provides a range of perspectives and makes it simple to ‘dip’ into a specific topic. Though I greatly appreciated reading it cover to cover.
There are three ‘weaknesses’ in SCiPC. Firstly, it is not cheap (Kindle $215 & hardcover $286). Given its high-quality content, this price is eminently reasonable and I recommend practices, centres and other organisations purchasing a copy for their library.
Secondly, SCiPC is a bit of a tome at 680 pages. Again this is not surprising given its cost, and its structure means it serves as an easy reference, however, it’s perhaps intimidating.
Finally, it is important to note that SCiPC is not a Christian book, though many of the contributors are Christians, instead providing a plethora of spiritual care perspectives. I found this a great strength, but if you are looking for a simple Christian resource, SCiPC is not for you.
Spiritual Care in Palliative Care: What it is and Why it Matters
by Megan C. Best
ISBN-10: 3031508637
Springer; 2024th edition (1 September 2024)
Rev Ben Boland
Rev Ben Boland (BSc Hon, MDiv, Grad Dip – Ageing and Pastoral Care) has had the privilege of serving as an older person’s chaplain for over fifteen years. He also serves as an advocate about Gospel ministry with older people and people living with dementia: writing, speaking on radio, podcasts and at conferences. Ben is a visiting lecturer at Brisbane School of Theology, Mary Andrews College, and coauthor of two books (Jesus Loves Me and Joy to the World) which share the Easter and Christmas accounts with people living with moderate to advanced dementia. Ben’s next book about Christian ministry with older people and people living with dementia Priceless People will be published by Christian Focus Publications in July 2024.
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