The following article appeared in “the Catholic People” in January, 2012.
Every Tuesday during the month of November 2011, 35 people from far and near in our archdiocese came together at the Cardiff University Chaplaincy to follow the twelfth course run by the Family Life Commission on “Befriending the Bereaved.” Each week a different aspect of this vital ministry was covered by a variety of people with expertise in all areas of bereavement support. Help was given to understand the needs of those who are bereaved through suicide, the loss a child and other scenarios that volunteers may come across in their work. Advice was given to them on setting up their own group within their Parish.
It is hoped that the recent audit undertaken by the Commission may add further groups to their records. Once a full picture has been gained from information sent back by Parish Priests the Commission will then be in a position to publish its findings on this most vital work within our Archdiocese.
Needless to say all participants passed the course with flying colours and it was a delight to see each one of them receiving their certificate from Canon Matthew Jones who is a member of the Family Life Commission.
The Family Life Commission has worked within the diocese on all aspects of family life and the course on bereavement support has been very successful and rewarding as too has been the establishing of “RAINBOWS” support groups for children who are bereaved.
Should you require any further information about the work of the commission we now have a dedicated e mail address flc@rcadc.org through which you are able to contact us.
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