The Bereaved Parent and Their Faith

One of a series of leaflets published by The Compassionate Friends We might find that temporarily stepping back from active involvement in services or worship activities can be a good idea, giving ourselves time to reflect. However, such services could also bring us much comfort. Having familiar practices to follow, which have been part of our lives for some time, can provide some reassurance in our new distressing situation. Our decisions on this will most likely depend on our obligations, both external and also what we believe to be right for ourselves within our tradition. The important thing is for us to follow our convictions, wherever they lead. Going back to the place of worship where our child’s funeral was held It can be difficult to go to a service at our place of worship if the funeral was held there because it revives our memories of that day. We might find ourselves visualising the coffin in place and this can be quite traumatic. For this reason, some of us find that temporarily visiting a different place of worship, within our faith tradition, can help. In time we might find there is less acute pain in that particular location. The response of other people in our community of faith to our bereavement One issue that many bereaved parents talk about is how their community of faith has reacted to their loss. Some congregations are marvellous when it comes to people in their midst who are bereaved. They go the extra mile with acts of compassion and comfort, visiting the grieving person at home, bringing them food, helping them make arrangements, organising gifts and so on. The congregation can help by bearing witness and sharing grief.