MINISTRY OF BEREAVEMENT

The Ministry of Bereavement of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish offers:

• Sympathy and prayers of the Parish.
• Help prepare of a meaningful and personal Liturgy.
• Attendance at the wake, funeral and/or internment.
• Service of helping hands.
• Care and concern through bereavement follow-up during the first year.

Criteria for Bereavement Ministers

• Will be recommended or approved by the Pastor.
• Is a person of faith and is caring and compassionate.
• Will have time and energy to dedicate to supporting those experiencing grief.
• Is a person who reflects serenity of soul, mind, and heart in speech and actions.
• Will have resolved his/her own grief issues to a place where the needs of the grieving person are primary.
• Will observe strict confidentiality regarding anything heard or observed in a contact with a grieving client.
• Will be trained in bereavement ministry utilizing National Catholic Ministry to the Bereaved training materials or other appropriate training materials.
• Will accept direction from clergy, liturgy, and music staff in developing authentic and dignified vigil, wake, and/or funeral services using the Order for Christian Funerals or other designated planning tool.
• Will voluntarily and temporarily withdraw from active ministry if he/she suffers a significant loss (See “grief resolution” item above).
• Will work in close cooperation with the Pastor, Parish Bereavement Coordinator and other Parish staff.
• Will refer grieving clients for professional help if required, always erring on the side of safety for the client.
• Will care for his/her spiritual, physical and emotional needs, to be well equipped to care for grieving clients.
• Will attend the annual Archdiocesan Bereavement Conference and other enrichments as available for continuing education.
• Will annually discern with the Pastor or Parish Bereavement Coordinator his/her desire and ability to continue in this ministry.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a Bereavement Minister, contact Mary Beth and David Kalina. at 847.729.3268.