Bereavement

Bereavement Befrienders

The loss of a loved one is one of the hardest things we have to cope with. We can feel very alone as we walk the path of grief. Friends and neighbours may not know what to say and can worry about asking how we are in case they upset us. Our family may live at a distance. Most of us have been in this situation. It is why the Bereavement Befrienders group was set up.

We are here to provide a listening ear and to be a supportive presence in your time of need. You do not need to be a church attender. You may have lost your loved one long ago or very recently. You may have a connection with the church or not. Whatever your situation, if you would appreciate the opportunity to talk about your feelings in confidence, or just chat about the person who has died, we are here for you.We are not counsellors, just people from across the team churches who are there to listen and be alongside you.

In the autumn we hold a simple service of light and remembrance to which all are invited. This is an occasion for us to light a candle and to remember before God those special people who have gone before us. The service includes well known hymns and music sung by our choir and is followed by refreshments. This year it will be held at St John’s church on Sunday, 18thSeptember at 3.30 p.m.

If you would like someone to contact you, or if you would simply like to find out a bit more about us, please get in touch with Pat Hewitson, the group co-ordinator, or Rev Esther Foss on 01423797260 (email esther.foss@live.co.uk)

A prayer for those who are bereaved

Beloved God,
the power of your unending love
will see us through the times
when we feel empty and bereft.
When the days are long and desolate
draw us to your heart.
Reassure us that the love we share
with one another
will go on into eternity.
Beloved God, thank you for love
that is stronger than death.
Amen.

 

You may also wish to visit the following pages for information and help with grief and bereavement:

 

Child Death Helpline: http://www.childdeathhelpline.org.uk/

 

Cruse Bereavement Care: Tel: 01234 340321 http://www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk/

 

SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society): 28 Portland Place, London W1N 4DE Tel: 0171 4365881 http://www.uk-sands.org/

 

National Association of Widows, 54-57 Alison Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 5TH Tel: 0121 643 8348

 

Compassionate Friends - For bereaved parents 6 Denmark Street, Bristol BS1 5DQ Tel: 0272 292778

 

Cot Death Helpline Tel: 0171 235 1721 (24hrs)

 

To find out more about Church of England funerals click here: http://www.christianfunerals.org/ or here: http://www.churchofengland.org/weddings-baptisms-funerals/funerals.aspx