170th CCNC-N Annual Gathering
The Benefits of hosting Bereavement Groups for your church and community
Room: Discovery
"If a loved one in your life has passed away, the period following this loss is called, ""Bereavement."" The word bereavement translates from the Latin as ""to literally be pulled apart or torn asunder."" Historically, churches were excellent support centers for individuals and families after the death of a loved one. However, American culture has drifted away from understanding the importance of holding space with the bereaved. We fear so much that we will say or do the wrong thing, that we don't do anything. For the annual gathering, Rev. Chaplain Mary Kearns will offer a workshop on the benefits of having a bereavement ministry in your church. She will offer education, reading lists and insight on how churches can reclaim this much needed ministry.
Rev. Chaplain Mary A. Kearns
Mary is an ordained DOC clergy at First Christian Church of Chico. She is a Board Certified Chaplain with the Association of Professional Chaplains. Mary holds additional certifications in Palliative Care and Pediatric Palliative Care Chaplaincy. In 2018, Mary graduated from The Center for Loss and Life Transition as a certified Death and Grief Specialist. She is a Hospice Chaplain with Enloe Hospice and hosts quarterly Bereavement Groups.