American Baptist chaplaincy network releases grief-related resources during COVID-19 holiday season

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 12/22/20) – The American Baptist National Network of Chaplains, Pastoral Counselors and Specialized Ministers, sponsored by American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), has developed a series of practical and spiritual resources to support those struggling with grief and loss during this holiday season, experienced in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The video resources—posted on the ministry networking platform ministrElife.org and at abhms.org—include:

• “An Empty Seat at the Table,” a panel discussion featuring Dr. Luz Celeniar Tirado, the Rev. Drs. Jose Tate and Deborah Stapleton and the Revs. Ricky Hicks and Petra VandeWater, moderated by Dr. Patricia Murphy;
• “Living Without Them: My Journey With Loss,” a webinar focusing on processing grief by the Rev. Dr. Jose Tate;
• “Meet me After Midnight,” a conversation between Dr. Patricia Murphy and the Rev. Dr. Deborah Stapleton about reimagining touch; and
• “Words of Comfort,” recorded by the Revs. Ricky Hicks and Petra VandeWater.

Additional videos and other digital assets will be added in the coming weeks.

These inspirational resources feature American Baptist professionals, experts in the area of grief and loss, who can enhance viewers understanding of healthy and unhealthy behaviors related to loss and help families and individuals navigate what may be a difficult holiday season for some.

Chaplains are trained to be attuned to trauma and relate to intense feelings elicited by grief and loss. The series gives viewers the opportunity to hear inspirational messages that can reframe perspectives on grief and suggest ways of coping during these challenging times.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.