National Grief Awareness Week

Grief is something we all experience at some point in our lives. While no two people react in exactly the same way, there is much to learn from hearing about others' experiences and sharing our own when we feel able to.

If you are grieving and want to talk to someone, do approach someone you trust.
If someone who is grieving approaches you, don't worry - you won't make it worse. The worst has already happened. If they want to talk, just listen.

Here are some reflections on what it can be like to lose someone.

This is a video which you might find helpful:

A PRAYER FOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED

Eternal rest, grant unto them, O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. AMEN

A PRAYER FOR THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING

Jesus, healer and teacher,  

you know what it is like to lose someone you love and you wept for your friend, Lazarus.

Help me make sense of what is happening,

because some days I feel angry, some days I feel lost,

some days I feel helpless, some days I don't feel at all.

Send me comfort and people to walk with me.

Help me through this pain,

and let treasured memories sustain me.

Help me to have faith that my loved one is now with you,

free from pain and worry.

Help others who are grieving this same loss.

I ask this in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

AMEN