Don't Die Without It! - Book Review - The Art of Dying (Ars Moriendi)

Everything we need to know or have forgotten about assisting a dying soul is set forth in The Art of Dying (Ars Moriendi), an “immensely popular and influential text of the Middle Ages”. This treasure was recently translated with Introduction and Notes by Br. Columba Thomas, O.P., M.D. and a Forward by Mother Agnes Mary Donovan, SV.

Few Catholics know or live their Faith anymore. A substantial number no longer believe there is a hell or if there is such a place, they believe God is too merciful to send anyone there. (The Truth is we send ourselves there by the choices we make in this life).

Few are prepared to die and fewer still are equipped to assist dying souls overcome Satan’s last-ditch efforts to snatch their souls from eternal bliss.

The Art of Dying was, and is, “aimed at equipping the faithful for death and dying.” It is needed just as much now (if not more so) than when it was first published centuries ago. We have lost our zeal for the salvation of souls. Countless people die without the Last Rites either because there are no priests available at the time, or the family never calls the priest or waits too long to do so.

Many do not know what to do at the bed of a loved one who is dying. More often than not the family’s focus is on the physical ailments and alleviation of pain suffered by their loved ones, and not the salvation of their soul. Brother Columba Thomas, O.P., M.D. wants to see that unwise approach changed.

During the worse of the COVID pandemic, numerous souls died alone without the benefit of the Last Rites or the presence of loved ones. We must resolve never again to leave any soul unaccompanied on death’s journey.

The Art of Dying will arm you and your family (especially those members who do not know their Faith) with the sound counsel and prayers which will allow you and them to help one to die in peace and grace.

This is a book that must be placed in the hands of every Catholic, most especially family members and those who minister to the sick and dying.

Do not delay getting your copy of The Art of Dying, since neither we nor our loved ones know the day or the time we will be called to stand before the Throne of Justice. Get your copy here.