April 25.  SEE.  Death in the family is a reality for everyone.  It is always sad when older persons pass on,  but when a parent of a younger family is taken ill and dies it is more traumatic.  The death of a child, especially through suicide, can be particularly traumatic.  Zola, a psychologist and one of the parish family leaders listened to the group sharing of their experiences.  Later she offered her professional experience to those dealing with some of the difficult losses. “ We can’t expect miracles, like bringing someone back to life, to happen today.  We so often wish they did, isn’t that so?” she asked. “Dealing with death is a painful and difficult process which takes its own time to process the stages of grieving. It needs loving support along the way for every member in their own way.” ” I know that St Francis prepared for his own death and was ready to die. Not everyone has that blessed opportunity.”

JUDGE. Scripture: Peter put all the widows outside and knelt down and prayed: then turning to Dorcas’ body he said, “Tabitha rise.” And she opened her eyes and when she saw Peter she sat up.  And he gave her his hand and lifted her up.  Acts 9: 42  Pope Francis: At times family life is challenged by the death of a loved one.  We cannot fail to offer the light of faith as a support. To turn our back on a grieving family would show a lack of mercy and mean the loss of a pastoral opportunity and effort at evangelisation.  AL 253.  Pope Leo particularly  during the current and recent wars involving Israel and the US has constantly expressed his dismay and sadness over the unnecessary deaths and the brutalising  effects on families and called on prayers for peace. He spoke out strongly while on his African tour which ended this week.  Reflect, share and act, pray.   Ask ourselves, “Are there any widowed or bereaved people that need our support, especially some affected by violence?