WHY?

How do we give an explanation for tragic events?
What response can we give when anguished family and friends ask 'Why?' when calamities occur?

Down the centuries there have been a range of explanations offered in attempts to explain tragic events deeply affecting people's lives. This book guides the reader through those explanations. Through the years, explanations given by Christians have varied: the current era is seeing a resurgence of fundamentalist Christianity that offers simplistic, and at times harmful, responses to tragic events; whilst other Christian traditions offer more positive responses.

In the final chapter, the author considers a range of Christian responses to tragic events. He notes how traditional Christian belief is deeply challenged by tragic events. The chapter offers fresh insights into how the relation of God to such events can be envisaged. Hopefully, such insights will prompt more realistic pastoral care in response to life's calamities.