Sometimes we avoid the fellowship of others because we are hurting and can’t imagine that it would be helpful to be among others.  Sometimes, we turn away from the one place where we can find the most solace.  It is not unusual to look for help from all kinds of sources while forgetting about the one place where we can find true understanding-our Catholic community.

The Church is a place where you can find help and comfort in times of hardship.  Through the community of people who share your beliefs and faith, you can find love and understanding.  Sometimes when we are feeling our worst, we stay away from Church because we cannot face others whom we feel may not understand.  Our Catholic family, however, is just what we need to help us move forward in our journey.  They may not know just the right words to say, but know that they love you because they love the Lord.  The familiarity of the ritual and the comfort we find in the liturgy can be reassuring. 

Though so many things may have changed with the loss of a loved one, we can know that there is comfort in what is familiar and steadfast.  Our Catholic Church has valuable spiritual and emotional resources beyond what you may realize.  It is a place where you will find love and warmth and people who truly care about you.  Reach out to your Catholic family. Ask them to pray for you.  Make an effort to join a ministry, attend Bible studies that are available, participate in some activity with your fellow parishioners-you will be glad that you did.