Teaming up for Grief Support

The Comforter

Mar 16

I work with a wonderful group of people who lead a group of people in their local churches to come alongside and support those who grieve in their community. During our last Zoom encouragement session, we discussed the challenges of supporting a large or extended family following their loved one’s death. I thought you might find some of our discussion helpful for you.

1. Keep in mind that when a family member dies, there is the extended family that is often in the area who are also grieving. For example, if a child dies that leaves siblings, parents, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles who are also suffering and need support for their broken hearts.

2. No single individual is equipped to support every need of everyone, so working with others in an organized spirit will make sure no one gets lost through the cracks of grief. Invite others you know to get involved. Check-in with those who are already involved to encourage them for the long haul as well as to coordinate any specific grief support care.

3. Acknowledge that different personalities need specific people that will connect with their broken heart. So, do not feel bad if you are not the one for that time in their grief. However, look for and ask others who might be a better fit. Keep in mind that our support for the grieving is all about what works best for the griever.

4. Notice the children. Keep close to them. They need to have safe conversations with people they know care about them. They need someone to take them on hikes, play games, write them letters and send cards, or go for ice cream. By hanging with the kids, we also give parents or grandparents a respite of the much-needed time for themselves.

5. Keep care baskets arriving on a regular basis filled with all kinds of goodies that are age-appropriate for all in the household. What goes in these baskets? Books, food, snacks, homemade bread, toys, gardening tools, flower or vegetable seed packets, tickets to a concert, tissue, bubble bath, music CD, a letter or note card, gift cards, grief resource list, stickers, invitations for a meal at someone’s home, etc.