A Bethany Bereavement Support Group has just been set up in St. Mochta’s parish. The name Bethany recalls the visit of Jesus to Mary and Martha on the death of their brother Lazarus.  Although grieving is a natural process which can be helped by the sympathy and understanding of friends, sometimes one may need support to work through it in a positive way. Friends don't always know how to help; they may be embarrassed by one's grief; they may even avoid meeting one in the mistaken belief that a meeting may increase distress. 

It is quite normal to feel anger, guilt, fear and depression as well as the awful pain of loss. These feelings need to be expressed rather than repressed, to be talked out, cried over and put in some sort of perspective.  It helps the healing process to talk with a trained listener and confront the very strong feelings associated with grief.  

St Mochta's Group is a voluntary parish-based ministry which aims to help the bereaved and grieving. The Bethany members will be available in St. Mochta’s Pastoral Centre on the last Monday of each month at 8.00 p.m. If you have been bereaved through death or separation, you are very welcome to come along and meet the team of fully trained members who will listen with understanding. They accept those suffering loss as they are, and support them through the grieving process.

The contact number for St Mochta's Parish group is 086 2479216 or contact the parish office (01) 8213218 during office hours,

9.30 - 12.30 Monday - Friday.

For more information on bereavement, loss or the Bethany Group visit Bethany.ie