At a time such as this, needs are manifold and there can be great assistance from a variety of resources.
Tragic Psalms by Francis Patrick Sullivan. Published by Pastoral Press Sullivan brings us face to face with people in despair, crying out for vengeance. When we read theses Psalms aloud, we challenge our own ideas of God, justice, retribution, and mercy.
Lord, Help Me, I'm Grieving by Philip Aviron and Violet Bareis. Published by Pastoral Press This colorful booklet combines serene images of nature with specific prayers for emptiness, withdrawal, reunion and more. A handy resource for clergy, teachers and counselors to help people deal with the loss of a loved one.
Give Sorrow Words: A Father's Passage Through Grief by Thomas S. Crider. Published by Algonquin Books This book is of value because it realistically shows that grief processes can be long and painful. The author's yearlong diary, started a month after the death of his only daughter, shows us his groping search for meaning. Not active in any organized religion or spiritual practice, the author turns to a wide range of sources to find solace.
How To Survive The Loss Of A Parent: A Guide For Adults by Lois F. Akner and Catherine Whitney. Published by Quill This book is intended for adult readers who are seeking support following the death of a parent, either recently, or some time in the past. Loss of a parent is one of the most difficult experiences in life. The bond between parent and child is a powerful one, and death may bring up issues long forgotten or never resolved.
Sibling Loss by Joanna H. Fanos. Published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates This book examines how the grief of sibling loss differs from the grief due to loss of a parent, child, or friend.
Death & The Adolescent: A Resource Handbook For Bereavement Support Groups In Schools by Grant Baxter and Wendy Stuart. Published by University Of Toronto Press This handbook shows how to help teen students affected by death, including a complete outline for a ten-week school-based grief support group.
Liturgies of Lament by J. Frank Henderson. Published by Liturgy Training Publications This book includes some material appropriate for interfaith services.
Prayer in Time of Terrorism- A Prayer of Hope by Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
Pax Christi A collection of prayers and litanies, some of which are appropriate for interfaith groups.
The People's Companion to the Breviary With Seasonal Supplement by Carmelites of Indianapolis. Published by Carmelite Monastery This book has a powerful reading from Leonardo Boff's "Passion of Christ, Passion of the World" that seems so very appropriate for the day, as many ask "why did God let this happen."
Naming Grace: Preaching And The Sacramental Imagination by Mary Catherine Hilkert
Published by Continuum In this volume, be sure to read chapter 7: "Grace at the edges: Preaching and Lament." |
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