Dear beloved in Christ:
The pain and loss of grief is something that we all encounter; there is much that we share in this suffering and much that is unique to each person. It is important to remember, as people of faith, that Lamentations is a book in our Bible, and that throughout Scripture, especially in the Psalms, we hear the authors’ sharing of grief (and sometimes loneliness and anger). In Jesus our Savior, we see that the Creator of all is not distant and abstract, but rather a God who knows and loves all that we are, a Savior who wept at the grave of his friend Lazarus, and a Redeemer who passed through the gate of death into resurrected life and gives us the promise that we will join him.
Jesus walks with us, now and always, and perhaps especially in our times of grief. Jesus also asks us to walk with each other, carrying each other’s burdens. If you have had a loss in your life, and being with others who have experienced grief will be helpful, I invite you to attend the new Grief Support Group that St. Andrew’s is hosting. It will be led by Deacon Mark Fredrickson, assisted by Carolyn Fleming. (This group is not just for St. Andrew’s members, so if you know someone who might be interested, please pass this invitation along to them.)
The first meeting is Sunday, April 23rd at noon, following the 10:30 worship service. (And, I am always available to provide support and pastoral care—just call or email me to set up an appointment.)
Blessings and peace,
Fr. Keith+
