In this episode, Jena Grech, who has a Masters in Christian Counsellor and has served in pastoral ministry for nearly two decades, joins the podcast to discuss a sensitive but vital subject—how to minister to those bereaved by suicide. Rather than focusing on prevention, this conversation centres on how we, as Christians, can respond with empathy, grace, and theological clarity in the aftermath of a suicide. Drawing from her personal, pastoral, and academic experience, Jena shares practical insights, spiritual reflections, and much more.

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Takeaways

- Ministry of Presence – Just being present with someone grieving makes a profound difference.

- Grief Is Unique – Every person experiences grief differently; avoid assuming or comparing.

- Avoid Judgmental Language – Use compassionate phrases like “passed by suicide” rather than “committed suicide.”

- Theological Sensitivity Is Crucial – Only God knows a person’s eternal fate; lead with love, not fear.

- Grief Is Ongoing – It doesn’t disappear after the funeral; anniversaries and milestones can trigger pain.

- Practical Help Matters – Babysitting, shopping, and even attending the coroner’s office with someone can be healing.

- Faith Can Be a Lifeline – Scripture, prayer, and spiritual support provide hope and meaning in loss.

- Empathy Over Answers – Don’t try to “fix” grief; listen, support, and sit with the hurting.

- Church Must Be a Safe Place – We must reduce stigma so believers can seek help without shame.

- Words Carry Weight – Even well-meaning comments can wound. Be thoughtful and Spirit-led.

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Chapter Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Welcome

01:15 – Why This Topic Matters

03:00 – Focus on the Bereaved, Not Prevention

05:18 – The Stigma Around Suicide

07:00 – How Suicide Grief Is Unique

09:00 – Shame, Guilt, and Isolation

12:00 – Navigating Theological Struggles

14:30 – What Not to Say to the Bereaved

17:45 – Ministry of Presence and Support

20:20 – How to Help Practically

23:00 – A Christian Perspective on Suicide

25:30 – Scriptures of Comfort and Hope

28:10 – The Ongoing Process of Grief

30:40 – How the Church Can Respond

33:00 – Final Encouragement and Prayer-----------Support Organisations (Australia):

Lifeline Australia

Youturn Youth Support

Referenced Resource: Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Ep. 19 – “Can Someone Who Commits Suicide Be Saved?” with Dr. David K. Bernard: https://youtu.be/qlaPmt4cdRI?si=l6pHDQibr08quNR0------------

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