There is a particular kind of grief that is seldom named in ministry, yet quietly shapes the life of nearly every pastor. It is sometimes known as “cumulative grief.” It is not the grief of a single loss, but of multiple losses. Over the years, pastors walk closely with their people—through hospital rooms, shared prayers, laughter in fellowship halls, and … Read More

As Mother’s Day approaches, sanctuaries fill with flowers, gratitude, and well-earned celebration. Yet sitting quietly among the congregation are those for whom this day carries a different weight—the aching absence of a mother who is no longer here. For pastors and grief caregivers, this is a sacred opportunity. With gentle attentiveness, we can help the Church become a place where … Read More

Losing a loved one is difficult. Someone you cared about and may have even seen on a daily basis is now no longer with you. It’s a drastic change, and it can leave us feeling hopeless. That’s why grief care is important.  Grief care is a ministry to reach out to people who are hurting. Maybe that is right after … Read More

Grief is a tough process that can leave a person going through it feeling vulnerable, alone, and misunderstood. If you are a friend or family member of someone who is grieving, and you don’t really know how to help them, it’s okay!  Grief is strange and hard to understand- especially if you’ve never gone through it yourself. You may worry … Read More

When someone has experienced loss, it can be tricky to know what to do or say. “Should I ask someone who is grieving how she’s feeling?” “Is it appropriate to try to cheer her up or get her to laugh?”  Knowing the exact right thing to say or do is difficult, and it is very dependent on the person who … Read More

Grieving the death of a loved one is a unique and difficult experience. People have lots of overwhelming emotions and need support along the way. Someone you know is deep in the midst of grief and loss. You want to help a grieving friend, but what do you say to make anything better? Especially when nothing you say to someone … Read More

Grief is one of the most challenging and overwhelming experiences a person can go through. When anyone we care about is hurting, it’s natural to want to reach out. But finding the right words or gestures can feel impossible. Making a care package for someone grieving is one meaningful way to show support. It’s a quiet reminder that they are … Read More

Grief counseling can be difficult for the individual grieving, but it can also be hard and draining for the counselor. Counselors must take the time to care for themselves.  When you frequently help people navigate the grieving process as a professional counselor, pastor, or layperson, you can find your own emotional balance and resilience challenged. There are many self-care practices … Read More

Have you ever been the person at a funeral to show support, but you’ve never experienced grief before? I have. And I’m sure I’ve put my foot in my mouth before. Perhaps you have experienced loss, but are unsure what to say to a grieving friend. A person’s journey through mourning the loss of someone, especially someone close, is incredibly … Read More