Bereavement ministry is a very important part of pastoral care here at St. Elizabeth Church. The goal of our support groups is to provide a prayerful, non-threatening, and safe environment where participants can express their feelings in the company of others who have lived through similar experiences. If you have lost a parent, spouse, or close friend and think you might benefit by sharing your grief experience, we invite you to consider participating in a bereavement support group here at St. Elizabeth. Each series of 8 weekly sessions meets in the front meeting room of the Church. Space is limited so call early to reserve. There is no fee, but pre-registration is absolutely required to participate.

St. Elizabeth Bereavement Ministry is staffed by three volunteer bereavement facilitators, trained in bereavement support group facilitation at Holy Cross Hospital’s Home Care and Hospice Center. If you feel you would benefit from joining a support group, we invite you to contact Deacon Kevin Byrne (301-279-5962) or Claudia McAuliffe (301-881-1457). 

The next bereavement support group will begin Thursday, January 5, and run for 8 consecutive Thursday evenings ending February 23. The series will take place from 7:00 - 8:30 PM through ZOOM.

Registration is required.

To register contact Deacon Kevin Byrne (301-279-5962) or Claudia McAuliffe (301-881-1457).

Having completed an eight-week bereavement series, some participants find it helpful to continue to meet. Our New Journey Spiritual Support Group provides continuing support at our two social potlucks, one in December, and the other in June for those who have completed our 8-week bereavement program. Please contact Deacon Kevin Byrne (301-279-5962) or Claudia McAuliffe (301-881-1457) if you wish to join this group.