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Archbishop Terrence Prendergast extended a warm greeting
to Rabbi Dr. Reuven Bulka who spoke to a packed room of people at the Diocesan
Centre on Wednesday, September 19th on the topic of accompanying the
bereaved. Many people involved in pastoral care in parish and hospital
communities came to enjoy a rich and thought-provoking evening on this
important topic.
Well known and respected as a wise and just spiritual
leader in the Ottawa community, Rabbi Bulka drew on his latest book, Turning
Grief Into Joy, as well as good humor, wise insight, and the painful
personal loss of a beloved child, to explore things that are helpful to people
in times of grief, and things which are not helpful and may even be harmful at
such a vulnerable time in life. Rabbi Bulka was careful to point out that while
there may be recognizable signs that a person’s grief is becoming
problematic for them, people grieve in a variety of very different ways and
some for a few months while for others a grieving period can last for years. It
is key that those who are supporting them respect this and express sincere
care, emphasize good listening, and offer helpful practical support. |
Archbishop Terrence Prendergast extends
a
warm welcome to Rabbi Bulka |
Rabbi Bulka offers wise counsel during an
interchange facilitated by Mrs. Carol Kuzmochka (right) |
Rabbi Bulka’s presentation was followed by a rich
interchange with the participants, facilitated by Mrs. Carol Kuzmochka. People
explored their own experiences, questions and insights, more deeply, with the
help of Rabbi Bulka’s wise counsel. The session concluded with an
invitation, extended by Msgr. Kevin Beach, vicar general of the diocese, for
all interested persons to join in a session of ongoing dialogue and exploration
about current needs in pastoral care in the diocese. This will take place at
St. Margaret Mary Parish, Fairbarn Ave. on Saturday, Nov. 17th
beginning at 9:30 AM and ending around noon. Those attending are asked to
kindly register prior, (613)738-5025 x217 or abrown@ecclesia-ottawa.org
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