End of Life

The death of a significant person is a life altering event and leaves our world permanently changed. We can experience a variety of emotions at this time of loss depending on our relationship with the deceased and on the manner of death.

The death of a beloved person with whom we enjoyed a happy, meaningful relationship may leave us with deep feelings of grief, sadness and loss, wondering how we will get by in life without their physical presence. The death of someone with whom we have had a more ambiguous relationship may leave us with feelings of regret that the opportunity to develop a more meaningful relationship has passed. A difficult relationship with the deceased may leave us feeling angry, guilty or resentful. It is possible to have contradictory or ambiguous feelings about the person and their death.

The manner of death also impacts our feelings and ability to cope with the loss. An expected, peaceful death after a long and fulfilling life is often easier to accept than a sudden, accidental or chosen death.

There are no right or wrong feelings at this time. We feel what we feel. However, receiving recognition of one’s feelings as well as compassionate support and understanding can help those who mourn cope. A ceremony can acknowledge, honour and hold sacred these painful and challenging experiences and the emotions they bring.

Ritual and ceremony can help place a loss within a broader context and provide much needed emotional and community support. Ceremonies are a way of publicly acknowledging the reality of death, expressing our thoughts and beliefs about it, providing a testimony to the life of the deceased and encouraging the expression of grief.

Barbara has twenty years experience in health care ministry, often working at the bedside with individuals and families experiencing death. During her twenty-six years in international development, Barbara also worked with many individuals and families who experienced traumatic deaths.

Barbara can create unique ceremonies to both honour the person who has passed as well as address the feelings of those left behind. A personalized rite or ceremony can hold the sacred space of this milestone and recognize the significance it holds for you. Recognizing and honouring the feelings of loss and sadness as well as memories of shared joy and the gifts held in the relationship can help bring comfort and coping during this time of transition. Barbara is honoured to accompany you on this journey.

The types of services possible include

• Funeral
• Memorial
• Celebration of Life
• Internment or Inurnment