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The Loss Of A Loved One

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The loss of a loved one is part of life, yet disrupts belief systems, family dynamics and basic operational functions. Whether the death was expected or sudden, every person is filled with grief and sorrow. Over the past five years, I had the opportunity to serve as a chaplain with the local fire department. The only time I was called out, was when someone had passed away. I would arrive on a scene of ciaos, sadness and shock. My main role was to sit with the family until the coroner or funeral home arrived. In those moments, I would pray, read scripture, and answer questions, yet as I wrapped up my duty, I was always concerned about the next season of their life. Of course there would be a funeral or memorial, but what about two, six, or eleven months later? How would the survivors be cared for? If they were part of a church, I am sure someone would fix them meals; and maybe, the pastor would visit. But who would help them walk through the grief and transition of this situational crisis? I believe more resources need to be offered by local churches to walk families through the grief process. The goal would be for them to have more life giving habits rather than life limiting in response to their loss. The main ways churches can assist people walking through loss is by helping people by make meaning out of their suffering, offer tools to work through their psychological intrusion and ensure they are not alone. First of all, Judith Herman said in her book Trauma and

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