"As the number of people who struggle with and are impacted by mental health challenges continues to grow, seemingly exponentially, so does the need for thoughtful biblical resources to guide those who are entrusted with providing pastoral care to them. I warmly commend Darkness Receding , even as I pray that reading Romans 5:1-5 carefully and repeatedly with Carson towards Christian character formation will enlighten those who presently sit in the darkness of depression and will empower them to know and experience the Dayspring from on high." --Todd D. Still, Charles J. and Eleanor McLerran DeLancey Dean, Baylor University, Truett Seminary "Marion Carson here offers a terrific fresh account of engaging with Scripture in the pastoral care of people with depression. She knows the two fields of New Testament studies and Pastoral Care well and combines them with great effect. She powerfully contrasts the ineffectiveness of individualistic readings--which treat the Bible simply as a collection of instructions--with more effective readings which recognize how Scripture enables growth in Christian character, even amidst the ups and downs of life. Warmly recommended!" --Steve Walton, Senior Research Fellow in New Testament, Trinity College, Bristol, United Kingdom " Darkness Receding is a standout contribution to the challenge faced within all communities: 'How to care for the person suffering from severe depression?' This treatment is fresh, informed, measured and constructive.

It rightly places responsibility, neither on the sufferer, nor the overworked pastor. The community, as recipients of God's gifts of faith, hope, and love, comes into its own when it is companion to the sufferer, patiently holding out these rich graces, not as exhortations, but as gifts." --Andrew Clarke, Leadership Development Lead, Scottish Baptist Union.