Description
Loss, grief, death,bereavement and mourning are pervasive and fundamental to the human experience. An understanding of the grief process and the ways in which clergy may compassionately respond to those who suffer loss and grief is essential to an effective ministerial practice in all settings and with all age groups. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the evolving nature and centrality of the experience of loss, and subsequent perspectives of grief in contemporary society. The course seeks to bridge current research and best practices and foster effective pastoral skills that respond appropriately to care with persons, families,and communities in situations of death, dying, and bereavement. The course increases participants' awareness of creative self-care practices for pastoral ministry when ministering with those who are dying and grieving. Emphasis is placed on learning about grief from a biblical, theological, religious, cultural, social, psychological, and p