Loss & Grief

“Loss is the price you incur by being alive, the extraordinary rent you have to pay for as long as you stay.” ­

-Annie Dillard, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek

Life involves loss. With loss we experience grief–a normal reaction to loss. The stronger the attachment, the stronger the grief. Grief needs healing and we can heal together.

We heal by listening to each other’s stories and connecting. Grief cannot be compared. It is not selfish or self-centered, but part of self care. Tears are healing and not a sign of weakness. The strong person cries and is vulnerable. Both Mary and Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus. And Jesus wept. John 11: 35

And Jesus wept.

-John 11: 35

Prayer is important at these times as we shift from asking, “Why?” to “What next?” We will never know the answer to why here on earth, but we can ask God to help us know what is next. We can pray for strength, healing, peace, understanding or what we feel we need. We can use formal prayer or conversation with God. We can just sit and be with God. God is with us in our suffering and grief. God weeps with us.

Parishioners of St. John of the Cross never need to be alone in their suffering. As a community, we help each other grieve and keep all of those who have lost loved ones in our prayers as they make memories of what once was and build a new future.

Buddy’s Place

Buddy’s Place—a family based children’s grief support program
is registering families for the upcoming
Fall 8 Week Session which begins September 13th

Buddy’s Place is a family based children’s grief support program for families with children ages 4-18 who have experienced the death of a parent or significant adult. The 8 Week Session is a grief support group that provides support and education. It meets for 8 consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6:15 – 7:30 p.m.

In addition, Buddy’s Place also offers a monthly family support group that meets on the 2nd Monday of every month and Peer Support Groups on the 3rd Wednesday for children and their parent/caregiver. All groups meet from 6:15 – 7:30 p.m.

There is no cost to participate in Buddy’s Place however registration is required. Families should call Kelly Huggins at 708.995.3750 or email at buddysplace@pillarscommunity.org for more information and to register

Helpful Links

• Pillars’ Buddy’s Place
  www.pillarscommunity.org/programs/BuddysPlace.asp
• St. Thomas Hospice
  www.keepingyouwell.com/CareAndServices/Hospice.aspx
• St. Thomas Hospice Kids Program
  www.keepingyouwell.com/…/Hospice/TommysKids.aspx