The bereavement ministry in our congregation is comprised of a small group of
volunteers who can provide assistance and comfort to those who are experiencing
a death in their family.
The ministry is one of reaching out to our people in times of sadness, and
also in times of joy, times of doubt and of questioning. It attempts to bring
love and healing, confirming to those who are grieving that this is a caring
community, which offers support in times of difficulty and sorrow.
Essentially this is a ministry of
Listening, of providing practical support
when needed, and of being available on an on-going basis to meet with the
bereaved for as long as is necessary. This can be for at least a year… perhaps
longer, depending on the situation.
The people who join this group are those who feel a sense of compassion for
others, but who are also able to cope with their own losses, their own grief,
and feel called in some way to be available for those who mourn. There are
several people who have been trained through Hospice, or Life-Line, in listening
skills, while others may not have had this opportunity but have a natural desire
to care for others.
We
continue to offer ongoing training, as often people move away
or feel the need to retire, or have difficulties of their own for a time which
make it harder for them to be available for others. Not all the team members are
active at any given time, and we try not to overload anyone, as one or two
people at a time is all that most people seem to have energy and time to cope
with. It is also not easy to arrange training meetings that everybody can
attend, as time schedules are tight for many people, especially the younger
members whom we long to attract into this work.
Anyone who would like to know more about this ministry,
or to help, is welcome to do so. The team meets once a month for ongoing
training and mutual support, and to pray for those to whom we minister. Our
group co-leaders are Jane Miller,
(Trainer) who can be contacted at home (+27 33 345 7480).
Further information is available through the
Church Office.
