Compassionate Goodbyes Program

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” - Matthew 5:4

This program, hosted in person by Amy Sytsma and Death Doula, Kristen White, was an opportunity to focus on the variety of the painful goodbyes we experience. Grief meets us in the death of a loved one, loss of a relationship, unmet longing for a child, mourning of a career setback, unexpected health issue, or loss of a dream. These losses can make us feel like God abandoned us. We can start to wonder if there is something wrong with us. We want to provide relief from these two common burdens.

Then evening was full of storytelling, poetry, picture books, resources, reflection, and prayer as a way to make space for the goodbyes in our lives. 27 participants attended the program. The goal of our night together was to encounter the tenderness of a loving God, extend compassion toward ourselves, and remember that we are never alone.