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COMMUNITY
September 5 , 2017 | The Valley Catholic
Catholic Cemeteries Offers Training for Parish Bereavement Ministers
By Kathy Fanger and Laura Schemmel
“ Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted .” Matthew 5:4
When death occurs or end-of-life choices need to be made , parishioners often experience fluctuating waves of emotions in the days , months and years to follow . Days of deep sadness , loneliness , even anger with God , may be sprinkled with more peace-filled , hope-filled days .
Many grieving parishioners look to the Church for spiritual strength . They seek support from those who share their faith , who will listen confidentially and encourage them on their journey .
Some parishes choose to offer grief support groups where , in a safe place , the grieving are able to share tears as well as laughter , often developing new relationships . They are reminded , through Scripture and prayer , that God understands , promising that one day they will be reunited with their loved ones in heaven . In addition , some parishes offer funeral planning or plan receptions with hospitality . Many of these ministers , staff or volunteers , have received formal training through a Catholic Cemeteries course , which stresses the importance of presence , listening skills and compassion .
Catholic Cemeteries bridges the
Participants pose for a class photo at session two of the six week Parish Bereavement Ministers ’ Training Series . They include parish staff and volunteers , trained professionals , a deacon and Catholic Cemeteries pre-need and funeral staff .
gap before , during and after the death of a loved one , honoring a life legacy by providing hope , compassion and peace of mind . Catholic Cemeteries offers an in-depth “ Parish Bereavement Ministers ’ 6-week Training Series .” It is designed for parish staffs , priests , deacons and volunteers who wish to start or enhance a ministry of consolation .
Kathy Fanger and Laura Schemmel , Catholic Cemeteries Outreach Coordinators , are the instructors . The ministry of consolation depends on faith , compassion and prayerful presence . Participants learn about the grief process , practices of effective communication and group facilitation , and knowledge of varied models of consolation programs . Participants engage in an established course of study with opportunities to learn , share , and practice elements of this ministry that enhance skills and resources . Each session includes prayer , music , reflection , sharing and skills used in a parish setting . In the final session , participants listen to a panel of experienced bereavement ministers from parishes in our diocese who share in their successes and challenges .
Participants looking to establish a parish support group are helped to design a program ‘ just right ’ for their parish , always with the support of the pastor and administrative staff . All are encouraged to recognize their individual talents to bring to the parish and use in any interaction with those who are grieving .
Those who have attended have said , “ I learned to just be there to listen .” “ The workshop provided the tools and framework we needed .” “ The opportunity to be with other parishes is a blessing .” “ I felt encouraged .”
Do you feel called by God to bring compassion and comfort to those in your parish who are grieving ? Does your parish offer bereavement support ? Consider registering for this series , offered three times each year .
For more information , contact Kathy Fanger at ( 650 ) 428-3730 x508 or cemeteryinfo @ dsj . org .
Questions at End of Life A Catholic Perspective
September 12 1 – 3 p . m . Church of the Transfiguration 4325 Jarvis Ave , San Jose 95118 Presenter : Father Joseph Benedict
Choices at end of life present unique challenges , particularly within a complex and technologically advance society . Physical death is perceived within modern society as the ultimate human tragedy . This presentation will explore end-of-life choices within the context of faith in Jesus and the moral tradition of the Church . Free . For more information , contact ( 650 ) 428-3730 or cemeteryinfo @ dsj . org .