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Intro from Archbishop Costelloe

I am pleased to provide for you information about the new Grief Counselling Service.

Tragic news in recent months relating to various events across Perth and Australia, as well as the publicity and speculation surrounding them, has been distressing and painful for so many people.

It has proven to be a very difficult and challenging time for all Catholics. It certainly is for me.

In order to provide some practical assistance, a number of people have been working with me to develop some resources which may help you. We are all conscious of how much people are hurting at the moment: we need to find ways to help them make sense of all that is happening. In this way, we can begin to move together towards a place of healing. It is my hope that these resources will assist you, and the people you support, along this journey.

The Archdiocese has established a 24-our mobile number for those struggling with grief and who may need more professional assistance. The Spiritual and Counselling referral service contact number is 0432 541 588.

*** Please note this is a call back service — callers will need to leave a message with a name and preferred phone number and will receive a call back to discuss their situation. ***

The 24-hours contact number has been established to help people find the best support for their situation. Please pass this number to those who are helping with grief support and those whom you believe might benefit from more professional assistance. Agencies such as Centrecare, the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family have offered the support of their counsellors at this time.

When we are struggling with our own grief and confusion it can be difficult to know how best to respond to others who are grieving, especially when there are so many people in this situation. As I reminded the people of both Whitford and Armadale in these days the Lord invites us, when we are labouring and overburdened, to come to him (Matt 11:28). He is the one who can give us the wisdom, the compassion and courage to reach out to others and support them at this difficult time.

Please know that my prayers are with you as together we try to be the living signs of Christ’s presence among us our strength and support.