Bereavement Support Group

This is a joint venture between English Martyrs’ and St Ignatius' parishes.

It is good that we can be seen as a Christian community to be offering some support to those who are bereaved and are grieving. It might not always be needed or wanted, but even the offer of help can be appreciated. Thanks to Sheila Sammon for her hard work setting this up.

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the group with the possibility of becoming a member should contact us.

  • Some Questions Answered

    • Who are we? We are a dedicated group of committed Catholics who believe that our faith must express itself in action.

      What do we do? We hope to offer understanding, friendship and comfort to those in our community who have lost someone very dear to them.

      How do we do this? We visit the bereaved in their homes on a regular basis for an informal chat, but mostly to listen.

      Why do we do this? We do this because we think of the Church as a family in which all members care for one another.

      How do we know who might need us? After a funeral the priest gives us the name and address of the next of kin so that we as a Church can continue to offer our help and support in a time of need.

      What about confidentiality? All our visitors are specially trained in caring for the bereaved, which means that all visits are completely confidential.

      Is there any commitment expected from me? No. You are the one who knows whether or not we can be of any help to you. In any case, should you feel our visits are no longer necessary then we shall have served our purpose.

      But I don’t go to Church!  That is not why we come.

      Meanwhile, we offer our love, sympathy & prayers as we share in your sad loss.  

  • A Prayer for Loved Ones

    • Perhaps you might like to join us in this prayer for you and your loved one:

      May the Lord support us all the day long,
      till the shades of evening come.
      the busy world is hushed, the fever of life over,
      and our work is done.
      Then, in His mercy, may He give us a safe lodging,
      a holy rest and peace at the last,
      through Jesus Christ our Lord.

      Eternal rest give to them, O Lord,
      and let perpetual light shine upon them.
      May they rest in peace.

      Amen

    If you think we could be of any help, please get in touch with the parish priest.

     

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