November is an opportunity to recognize the challenges faced by people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as well as their families and caregivers. These changes can create a distinctive kind of sorrow, and understanding anticipatory grief can help us care for ourselves and others with greater patience, compassion, and hope. Recently, I received a phone call … Read More
Dad: The Forgotten Griever As Father’s Day approaches, many churches will rightfully celebrate fathers for their love, strength, guidance, and sacrifice. Yet for some men sitting quietly in the pews, Father’s Day will not feel celebratory at all. It will deepen the ache of loss. Some are grieving the death of a child. Others mourn a spouse, a father, or … Read More
Smiles and laughter are among the many faces we might see on Father’s Day. But there is another face we may see and, hopefully, won’t overlook on this holiday—the face of someone grieving the loss of their father. For caregivers of the grieving, holidays are important times to remember that this day can be about both gratitude and grief. Perhaps … Read More
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
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’re worried you’ll say the wrong thing? Maybe you’ve heard that some of the most well-meaning statements can be the worst things to say to someone in grief. And you want to learn how to offer real comfort rather than add to their pain. The good news … Read More
There are times when the calendar brings joy. There are times when the calendar hurts. And sometimes, the date on the calendar is the source of both intense feelings at the same time. Recently, Americans celebrated the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, and communities across the country gathered for parades, fireworks, concerts, family reunions, and patriotic celebrations. For many, … Read More
