Pastoring the Bereaved During COVID-19

"The joy of our hearts has ceased; dancing has been turned to mourning." Lamentations 5:15

You can check out Eric’s recent podcast talk with Ed Stetzer on pastoring those who are greiving here.

Pastoring the bereaved requires wisdom and acute sensitivity during the best of times. Pastoring the bereaved during this epidemic and the call to “social distance” has particular challenges.

People are not able to sit at the death bed of those they love, physically embrace family members and friends, or attend funerals in person.

Not being able to participate in these rituals will likely result in prolonged grief for those who have lost loved ones during this time.

Grief is often a visceral response to the reality of a loved one being ripped from the fabric of our life. This relational loss is often consoled by the embodied presence of surviving family members and friends. The pastoral challenge of the moment is knowing how to provide the ministry of presence in an epidemic that has called for social distancing. Allow me to offer a few suggestions for this season.

In seminary, pastors are trained to trust in the Spirit’s work through the ministry of presence while ministering to those who grieve. Yet many pastors are feeling constrained in their work during this unique season.

As one college minister said to me recently, “I’m finding myself reflecting upon Paul’s ministry while he was in prison and not able to be with those he cared so deeply for.” So what can pastors do during this time of social restrictions? I’ll offer two suggestions that may be helpful.

Encourage Social Connection

Isolation is dangerous. The American Psychological Association has announced a significant and widespread increase of depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms as a result of this epidemic and ...