The death of a family member, close friend or associate is one of life’s biggest challenges. Grief can be very painful and isolating. But it does not have to be done alone! In Autumn 2026, St Mary’s Church Lytchett Matravers is introducing The Bereavement Journey® a six session programme designed to support people who are grieving. Individuals of all faiths or none are invited to join us. The programme provides a safe space for bereaved people to talk with others who understand the pain of grief, to explore the impact of their loss and consider ways they might resolve issues they are facing for a healthy and positive future. There is an optional seventh session for those who wish to explore spiritual questions which often arise in bereavement.
Topics include:
- Attachment, separation and loss
- The impact and pain of bereavement
- Adjusting to change
- Anger and guilt
- Coping with others’ reactions
- Moving on healthily
Many people attend the bereavement journey in the months following the death of a loved one, friend, associate. Others may find their grief resurfacing from unprocessed death from years beforehand or want to explore how bereavement might have affected them.
The programme starts in October. There is a suggested donation of £20 to help pay for the programme manual and other resources. If you would like to know more, contact Gil Schwenk or Karen Hesketh via the following email: wardens@smlm.co.uk or phone 01202 020462 to register.
The Bereavement Journey is supported and resourced by the charity Ataloss.org who provide a range of bereavement support and practical information, please visit AtaLoss.org for more details.
You don’t have to go it alone!