Bereavement Support
The death of a loved one or other kinds of loss can be a bewildering and devastating experience and may bring about very strong emotions. People grieve in different ways. Some seem to cope well initially but find it more difficult later. Some have more difficulties at the beginning.
Be gentle with yourself whatever feelings and reactions you are experiencing. Grief is a very personal experience there is no right or wrong way to feel. We are all different and deal with things in different ways. It is important to allow yourself time to grieve in a way that feels right for you. It is normal to feel angry, or guilty or very alone. Life may feel as if it has no purpose.
Take things one day at a time!
DO:
· Keep in touch with family & friends by phone, text, email, or letter.
· Get rest, fresh air, sunlight, and exercise when possible.
· Keep a regular routine.
· Accept practical help from others.
· Talk about your feelings and the loss you have experienced.
· Do allow Jesus to comfort you.
If you need to access bereavement support, we have volunteers who are trained in consolation support from across the diocese, including our own Parish. As a first step please email Darren at fricker@blueyonder.co.uk who may be able to help you access the kind of support you may find helpful.
Our plans at St Johns, Horsham include:
· One to one support for those who would like it
· A Quarterly Mass of Consolation and chance to chat to others and volunteers from the Parish Bereavement Team over coffee.
A Prayer
May He support us all day long, till the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in His mercy may He give us a safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at last.
St John Henry Newman
