A New Relationship

David M. Kelly teaches religious studies at Brock University in St.
Catharines.

A New Relationship consists of two parts: an account of the death of
former United Church of Canada minister William Pope’s son, Robert;
and a description of Pope’s spiritual struggle in coming to terms with
his grief. In the former, Robert Pope is portrayed as a man of courage,
struggling to overcome his affliction. In the latter, William Pope is
portrayed as a man of faith who finds solace in the love of God.

This well-written and down-to-earth book is blissfully free from the
saccharine-sweet sentimentalities that often characterize literature
dealing with grief. The book also serves as a powerful reminder to
clergy and general readers alike that the Christian conception of God is
one of love, not vengeance.