St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church
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Good Grief
May 22, 2023
from Take Out
Celebrating the special joys of holidays can be especially difficult when a loved one has died. The clichéd images of family togetherness and the often unrealistic expectations of times filled with picture-perfect, joyful gatherings can cause tremendous stress for those who are not grieving, let alone for those in the midst of the painful, isolating experience of loss. Here are some ways to help find peace in the midst of grief:
- LEAN ON YOUR FAITH. As Catholics, we believe that we are all one family, one body of Christ, even after we die. Praying for our loved ones after they have died reinforces our belief in eternal life.
- BE DIFFERENT. This year, expect that some traditions may change with your loved one gone. Honor the bereaved with a special decoration on a table or light a candle for him or her in your parish chapel. Start a new tradition such as having a Mass said for your loved one. Gather friends and family to attend.
- REACH OUT TO GOD AND NEIGHBOR. Asking God daily to be with you in your grief is a powerful way to journey through special events. Reaching out to friends and family to share stories, laugh and cry together is essential in the grieving process.
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