Everyone experiences loss and grief in life. We believe that, in these moments, everyone deserves support and understanding. Many find comfort and relief having a dedicated time for reflection, exploring Jewish perspectives on mourning, and talking with others who “get it.”
We do not have another Bereavement Spiritual Support Group scheduled.
Philosophy
Grief is not a pathology. It is a normal response to loss. Typical grief responses include loss of focus; sleep challenges; and a range of physical, emotional and spiritual reactions. Grief naturally stimulates spiritual reflections, including about the afterlife, on-going relationship to the person who died, considerations of a broader world view and changing identity, loss of concrete faith, questioning God, or shifting assumptions about the nature of life.
What happens in groups?
- Mourners connect with one another and share personal stories
- Readings on grief and healing are shared and reflected on
- Discussions are led around common themes and different grief experiences
- Rituals and resources for coping and spiritual and emotional support are explored
- Sessions are guided by a Bay Area Jewish Healing Center Rabbi or specially trained facilitator
What kinds of groups have you offered?
- Groups are ‘mixed loss’—often groups include a variety of relationships (death of a parent, spouse/partner, child) and causes of death
- Typical size is 6-8 participants
- Most of our groups meet weekly for about two months in a row.
- Individuals sign up for the series, and the same participants are with each other week-to-week for the duration
- Most participants have been in mourning for a number of months, or up to years
- Content is informed by psychological and Jewish perspectives on mourning
- No one is excluded based on religious affiliation (or non-affiliation), economic status, race, or gender identity