SPIRITUALITY IN BEREAVEMENT: INTERFAITH PERSPECTIVES (SCPR-3002)
(09/07/2021-12/17/2021)
Course Memo
When facing a profound a loss of any kind, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, pet loss or loss of health, we cannot separate psychology from spirituality. Regardless of one’s belief system, spiritual outlook or concept of God, loss and grief almost always triggers existential questions, because searching for meaning is an intrinsic part of the grieving process. Anyone who works to support the bereaved inevitably encounters this struggle, but often feels uncertain of how to address it. This is especially important when working with diverse inter-religious populations. In this course, we will examine death and grief practices from several world cultures and spiritual traditions, with special sections on Hinduism, Judaism and Islam. This course is designed for masters-level pastoral care providers working with loss, trauma and grief. Course activities will include class discussion, lecture, interactive exercises, reflection papers, sacred ceremony. Course available for 1.5-3 units.