Natural Responses Grief affects our bodies, minds, spirits and emotions. It also affects how we manage day-to-day living. There are wide ranges of responses to the death of one whom we love. You are unique and your responses will be as well. Some responses may include: Shock and numbness Denial, disbelief Feeling empty Crying, loneliness Sadness and sorrow Anger and guilt Anxiety, fear, panic Physical reactions such as headaches, illness, fatigue Confusion, lack of concentration

Helpful Guidelines For Coping with Grief and Bereavement Although grief and bereavement are painful processes, they are part of the experience of living . Helping yourself in times of grief may include the following: Express your grief Accept your feelings, even the painful ones Seek and accept support Pace yourself Learn more about grief Help the children Be cautious in making major life decisions.

Have faith and hope that healing will eventually come!

Blessed are those who morun, for they shall be comforted

Matthew 5:4

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Luke 1:78-79

You need not remain alone during the difficult time of grief.

Your parish community will share your journey through grief with you.

How Can My Parish Help?

The Catholic Parish of St. Elizabeth Seton offers THE MINISTRY OF CONSOLATION AND HOPE.

This Ministry provides bereavement support for those people who have experienced the death of one whom they have loved.

The members of the Ministry of Consolation and Hope include individuals who have received education and formation in order to journey with people who have experienced death.

They will visit individuals and families, share information about grief and mourning, assist in organizing parish memorial services and refer to competent grief support groups.

They can provide support on behalf of the Parish as we experience the emotions of grief and express our grief through mourning.

We invite you to call the parish office for further information on how you may receive assistance and support at this time or you can leave an email message and you will be contacted by one of the members of the Ministry of Consolation and Hope.

We also invite interested individuals who would like to become involved in this ministry to contact the Parish at 905-853-5009.