Morgan Hill church offers grief support

Grief is something we must all go through at some time. No one
is immune to loss through death or divorce
– or in this economy, of a job or home or other valued
possession.
Grief is something we must all go through at some time. No one is immune to loss through death or divorce – or in this economy, of a job or home or other valued possession.

The Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of San Jose have developed a five–session series of presentations addressing this unfortunate reality. “Grief and Hope” was recently presented at St. Joseph of Cupertino Church, and it is now being repeated for the convenience of South County residents at Morgan Hill’s St. Catherine Roman Catholic Church, 17400 Peak Ave.

The first presentation, “Feelings and Stories,” (Jan. 26) was an intergenerational session focusing on practices that help to identify and share feelings that surface during the five stages of grief. Research by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross has shown that deep personal loss causes a natural progression of stages:

• Denial (this can’t be happening to me)

• Anger (wanting to fight back or get even)

• Bargaining (attempting to make deals with God to change the loss)

• Depression (overwhelming hopelessness)

• Acceptance (accept the loss and grow toward healing).

The presenter was Suzanne Young, Pastoral Outreach Coordinator for the cemeteries, who has a Masters degree in psychology and is an experienced spiritual director and retreat facilitator.

The second presentation, “Bereavement Support,” (Feb. 2) focused on the signs of grief and the techniques by which people can help themselves and loved ones deal with these manifestations. The evening included prayerful times, stress reduction techniques, creative work and communication skills.

The remaining sessions will be held Mondays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Parish Center. All are welcome to attend, and there is no fee.

• “Healing of Grief through Music” will be held Feb. 9. Presented by the Rev. Christopher Bennett, pastor of Santa Teresa Roman Catholic Church in San Jose. Participants will experience an evening of prayer and reflection with a variety of secular music. “There will be waves of memories and emotions; participants will gain techniques to continue the journey through the grieving process.”

• “Personal and Communal” will be held Feb. 16. Presented by Young, it will feature Catholic traditions, sacraments and rituals “to accompany the grieving person on the journey of joy and sorrow.” Participants will find ways to honor experiences, memories and connections with others.

• “Anointing: A Healing Ritual” will be held Feb. 23 with Father Bennett presenting. The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is a gift of the Holy Spirit that renews confidence and faith in God and strengthens against temptations of discouragement and anguish. It can lead to spiritual and bodily healing. Although many think this sacrament is only for those near death, participants will learn why they should not delay calling a priest and may participate in the Anointing Sacrament that night.

South County residents who want more information should call Jeanne Gaffney, pastoral associate at St. Catherine’s, at (408) 779-0542. More information is also available at the Catholic Cemeteries’ Web site: www.ccdsj.org/events/index.html.