Grief is an intense emotional suffering caused by a loss. The death of a loved one is the greatest loss a person will ever experience. It takes time to heal this emotional wound. People experiencing grief share similar feelings but may mourn very differently.

The bereavement ministry was formed to reach out to persons experiencing grief through the death of a loved one. This ministry consists of volunteers who make telephone contact with a family member in St. Joseph Parish. The relative may be a spouse, parent, or child of the deceased person. Contact with these families may be ongoing.

Sympathetic listening, compassion and encouragement through the grieving process is our goal. The volunteers of this committee are also able to furnish information about grief seminars and support group locations. The grieving process is difficult and there is no timetable for completing it.