"FINDING MEANING" and "Surviving Grief" Literature

The following is a sample of books we suggest you will find helpful when we lose from this world those we love:  

 All of us long to know what life after death will be like. Bestselling author John Burke is no exception. In Imagine Heaven, Burke compares over 100 gripping stories of near-death , experiences (NDEs) to what Scripture says about our biggest questions of Heaven:  

 Angels and saints. Catholics tend to think of them as different from the rest of us. They’re cast in plaster or simpering on a holy card, performing miracles with superhero strength, or playing a harp in highest heaven. Yet they are very near to us in every way. In this lively book, Scott Hahn dispels the false notions and urban legends people use to keep the saints at a safe distance.  

After the tragic death of his 21 year old son, David Kessler wrote this powerful book that helps anyone who has lost a loved one to find meaning.  Kessler’s insight is both professional and intensely personal. His journey with grief began when, as a child, he witnessed a mass shooting at the same time his mother was dying. For most of his life, Kessler taught physicians, nurses, counselors, police, and first responders about end of life, trauma, and grief, as well as leading talks and retreats for those experiencing grief.  

This short book written after the death of 6 innocent college students at Creighton university due to drunk drivers, deals with finding meaning and finding strength after loss.  A professor of theology,  Richard J. Hauser, offers practical help for Christians in using faith to more effectively deal with suffering.  

A powerful faith filled retreat for parents who have lost a child of any age. Retreats lasting from 30 min to a weekend either at home online or on location. Sign up at info@emfg.org. For us the Saturday morning 30 minute retreats helped.  This group did not treat grief as something to be cured but rather worked with strengthening our faith to help us live.

More and more we see young people leaving the church and not coming back. They are looking for answers and the parents aren't disposed to give those to them. In this book, parents can learn what they need to say to bring their children to bring them back to the church. 

Websites that can help teach and strengthen your faith. 

Get reflections on the daily Gospel readings by youth and Notre Dame Alumni

Powerful website for discerning women of all ages

Daily reflection by Bishop Robert Baron on the Gospel.