“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” James 1:27 (NIV)
Why the Church?
There is a clear call in Scripture for our churches to reflect God’s compassion for those who grieve. Being bereaved can be one of the most difficult times in life, and the grief journey can be long and arduous. It can impact in the weeks, months or even years after a death – and even before, when someone is dying. But if understanding support is found, most people will learn to navigate their loss and come to a healthy place of new meaning and hope. Churches can provide that hope.
Churches are in every community and on hand to provide the welcome and support that is needed. Many also have a connection through their funerals ministry.
Bereavement also raises spiritual questions and can leave people wondering about the goodness and existence of God and the afterlife.
We have before us an extraordinary opportunity to show to an increasing number of people that God is good, that God is love and that there is hope for the future.