The family of Rev. Tang recently notified the Congregational United Church of Christ, where I currently serve, that his book has been published.

The book consists of a series of reflections by Rev. Tang concerning the illness and passing of his beloved wife, Poey Sim on April 24, 2010.  He uses this medium to discuss the epiphanies (visions and dreams) he experienced that helped him to know that Poey Sim was near.  Further, he speaks of his struggles dealing with grief and how the Holy Scriptures, as well as, other devotional books helped him to deal with his loss.

He cites 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 as the verses that gave him the inspiration to write this book:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of al comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

He writes, “In my deepest desire to share what I have come to know as the way to find comfort and peace— that of going into the Word of God.  I pray and hope that this sharing will, indeed, be received by fellow travelers who continue their life journey under the same circumstances that pertain to me.”

After reading this book, I believe he has achieved his purpose.  It is an inspiring story of faith, hope and most of all – LOVE. It clearly demonstrates that nothing can separate us from the love of God and those whom we have loved while on this earth.  In addition, he gives some good advice and resources that can assist anyone dealing with the loss of a loved one.  I believe that I have found it to be beneficial as it provides insight into the struggles that people go through when they suffer a great loss.  Whether you know someone going through a time of loss and grief or you are going though this yourself, this book may be of benefit to you, as well.

I thank God for you,

Pastor Kathy Nealand

Interim Pastor

RESOURCES

One resource mentioned that was given to him by his church are a series of books designed to help those grieving.  Each book is given to a grieving individual or family at a particular time during the first year.   It is published through Stephen Ministries and available on Amazon.com.  It is:

Journeying Through Grief by Kenneth C. Haugk

Some of the other resources referred to in the book may be helpful for anyone going through difficult times.  They are:

Facing Our Giants: A David and Goliath Story for Everyday People by Max Lucado

The Vanishing Power of Death: Conquering Your Greatest Fear  by Erwin Lutzer

The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan

The Upper Room Daily Devotional for 2012

Related articles

• Remembering the Rev. Kin Wah Tang (friendlychurchli.wordpress.com)
• The Roadmap of Grief (Part 1) (theevolvinghealer.com)
• Loss and Gain | by Linda Brendle (lifeaftercaregiving.wordpress.com)