Dear Priests, Deacons and Lay Leaders,

Grief is one of life’s most profound experiences, and navigating loss within a faith community can bring both comfort and challenges. This questionnaire is designed to better understand how our community experiences and supports bereavement. Your insights will help us strengthen our ability to walk alongside one another during times of sorrow.

Why Your Voice Matters: Each of us carries unique experiences and perspectives on grief. By sharing your thoughts, you are contributing to a more compassionate and informed community—one where no one must face bereavement alone.

The information gathered will help guide future support initiatives. Thank you for taking the time to participate in this important conversation.


With appreciation,
Maria Somany
Gardens of Gethsemani,
Archdiocese of Vancouver
Master of Arts Student
St. Mark’s College - capstone project on Bereavement

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* 1. What current support systems are in place for individuals and families experiencing grief or loss in your parish?

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* 2. How often do members of your congregation seek support following a bereavement?

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* 3. What challenges do you or your pastoral team face when providing bereavement care?

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* 4. Are there specific cultural, spiritual, or community traditions around grief that should be considered when offering support?

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* 5. What additional resources, training, or partnerships would help your parish better support grieving individuals?

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* 6. How confident do you feel in your ability to provide spiritual and emotional support to someone who is grieving?

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* 7. Have you received any formal training in grief counseling or bereavement care in addition to pastoral care training?

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* 8. Do you notice any patterns in how different age groups or demographics within your parish experience and express grief?

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* 9. How does your parish follow up with individuals or families after a funeral or memorial service?

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* 10. Would you be interested in partnering with the Gardens of Gethsemani in receiving bereavement support training for your ministry leaders?

Personal Information

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* 11. Full Name

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* 12. Parish:

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* 13. Phone Number

Thank you for your participation. Much Appreciated. God bless.

T