COPING with loss and grief has looked very different for many people in the past several years, with Covid-19 restrictions at times affecting our ability to congregate, even in small numbers.

Funerals and church services were two of the many community activities that were impacted by the restrictions, with many unable to farewell their loved ones as they normally would.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

Carolyn Bye, Deacon, Tea Gardens Baptist Church, says she heard her friend remark recently, “It was really hard having my husband die during the first Covid lockdown, especially as we could only have ten people at the funeral service.”

Carolyn’s friend continued, “Then later, with further lockdowns I couldn’t go anywhere and no-one could come and comfort me.”

Carolyn said hearing those words was a reminder that, even in the best of times, our culture does not deal well with death and grieving.

“And with the added isolation of Covid, those who are bereaved can struggle to come to terms with their heartache and loss,” said Carolyn.

With that in mind, a ‘Remembering Loved Ones’ Service will be held at Tea Gardens Baptist church on Sunday, 1 May at 2 pm.

“Everyone is welcome but especially those who are grieving the death of loved ones in recent years,” said Carolyn. “We invite you to bring a memento of your loved ones to display in the foyer.

“During the service there will be an opportunity to remember your own loss of family members and friends, as we join together.

“At the conclusion of the Service we will have afternoon tea.”

For any enquiries phone Carolyn on 0419 267 823.