Now widely recognised within palliative care, the concept of ‘total pain’ is an intensely theological one at heart. In Light to those in Darkness clinician and theologian Dr Charlie Bell holds up the concept to theological scrutiny. Bell reflects on the ways that the doctrine of ‘the communion of saints’, might be used to help the church understand how it can address “total pain” within individuals, and collective trauma within the wider community. As such the book offers both an important theological reflection for those in pastoral care roles and a broader challenge to the church to become a place of solidarity and accompaniment.

"‘Charlie Bell, writing as both priest and doctor, offers a generous and nuanced vision of the sustaining power of the Communion of Saints, calling the Church to walk empathically alongside those travelling through the valley of the shadow of death." -- Jessica Martin
"This poignant and insightful book invites us to wrestle with the darkness of pain and death and the light and hope of everlasting life. Weaving together doctrine and prayer, the witness of the saints and the faith of the Church, Charlie offers us a theological tapestry of light shining in the midst of darkness.” -- Stephen Cottrell
"Charlie Bell approaches and takes us into resurrection, pain and prayer with great insight. This is much more than a pastoral handbook: it is the wisdom of best pastoral practice informed by doctrine and the Communion of Saints, who are our friends and companions." -- Christopher Chessun

Dr Charlie Bell is John Marks Fellow, College Lecturer in Medicine and Praelector at Girton College, Cambridge.