Temple Rodeph Torah Sponsors Community Bereavement Group

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MARLBORO – The Jewish Federation of Monmouth County has awarded an Adventure grant to sponsor a Bereavement Group that is open to the entire Monmouth County community.
“Our intention is to create a safe and supportive environment that will allow people to grieve at their own pace, without the pressure from well-meaning friends and family to move on with their lives,” said Rabbi Shira Stern, the facilitator of the group. “It is natural to want to tell stories about those they loved and lost. But there comes a point when friends and relatives can no longer hear the same stories. That’s why we’re here.”
One participant who has processed the loss of his wife of 64 years, and who still comes to the group to be supportive of others, describes the need to be part of the Bereavement Group as “an opportunity to be with people who speak the same language that I speak, people who understand when I’m overwhelmed by loneliness. They’ve walked the same path.”
Participants from many different walks of life find common ground, because the common elements of loss unite people in a powerful way. “For some, private mourning is the only way to express their loss,” said Rabbi Donald Weber, spiritual leader of Temple Rodeph Torah. “For others, it helps to know you’re not the only one who feels alone. If you find yourself crying in the car when a song comes on the radio, or reaching for the phone to talk to your parent about some exciting news, hearing others who do the same is comforting.”
“We are very pleased that the Jewish Federation of Monmouth County supports those who feel marginalized by their sadness. The Federation has always provided programs that sustain the integrity of both individuals and members of our community who cannot find the resources to heal by themselves,” Stern said.
Stern received her training as a chaplain at the HealthCare Chaplaincy in New York City, and earned her doctorate in Pastoral Counseling from the Hebrew Union College and the Post-Graduate Center for Mental Health. She has worked with grieving families and individuals for over 35 years, and recognizes the huge impact that group work has on those walking the grieving journey.
The Bereavement Group meets twice a month from 10 to 11:45 a.m.  Wednesday mornings. Exact days are posted on the Temple Rodeph Torah website at trt.org or can be obtained by calling the temple office 732-308-0055.
Additional information is available by calling Stern directly at 732-308-3836.