Listen ... Comfort ... Pray
By Marianne Schultz, Deacon
2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.
During Holy Week, we are more aware that our Lord Jesus knows pain and death, and He has overcome both! I have been blessed to help people deal with the pain surrounding the death of their beloved pets.
I became certified as a pet loss and bereavement counselor through the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement. I began this mission in 2012. The Lord directed me toward this ministry when I sought answers for my own grief at the loss of our beloved Maggie. She is my inspiration and the source of my passion to help others. Maggie is my angel in heaven; I do this for her and Jesus.
I am the Chaplain for a unique veterinary practice called Arms of Aloha. Every week I receive a list of bereaved pet parents to call. Before making my calls, I have my prayer time with God asking Him to be with me and those I speak with. I pray that I continue to be a good listener, to offer comfort and hope at this most devastating time. I pray for confidence and strength to give me an open heart if they request prayer. I know the Lord is with me each step of the way.
These calls are extremely emotional for the bereaved parent and for me. I often hear sobbing and can feel their tears. I hear stories of their lives together, often funny memories, but also about the illness and the difficult decision as the steward of their beloved family member at the end of life. My encouragement is that they took a brave step in sharing with me, as that is the most difficult part. I let them know they will remain in my heart; they can call again to let me know how things are going and that I will pray for them.
One interesting thing is that I almost never meet these people. On occasion I have been requested to come to the home as a spiritual presence. I have laid hands on the pet, praying for safe passage as they take their final breath. We work together through the phone, often more than once, as they begin to walk this new journey.
Pet loss during COVID has been magnified due to isolation from friends and family. Often the cat, dog, bird, chinchilla or other creatures of God was their only companion. I always share with them one thing I know for sure (from work and my own losses); their wonderful companion will forever be in their heart and the love will always remain.
It is important to seek support in whatever troubles we have. Do not be afraid to allow yourself the healing necessary for your health (mental or physical). Fear not and feel no shame, for Jesus loves and supports you in all things.
John 16: 32 (NLT) I am not alone because the Father is with Me.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray to You for continued strength in the ability to share Your love with others who are so hurting at the loss of their family member. Thank You, Father, for being with me every step of the way. Your love gives hope and peace in their hour of need. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
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