Brave Hearts, Bright Holidays a healing journey for widows

Dec 21, 2024

PETALING JAYA: Reflecting on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Widow to Widow ministry at the Church of St Francis Xavier made its Surviving the Holidays workshop an annual tradition. This year’s event, held on November 16 in collaboration with the AOHD’s Bereavement Support Group, was themed Brave Hearts, Bright Holidays.

Aimed at providing support to both the newly bereaved and those further along in their healing journey, the workshop reminded participants that they had a sisterhood to rely on and offered a chance to rebuild the resilience needed to face another holiday season.

The day began with a moving memorial service, celebrated by parish priest Fr Alvin Ng, SJ. This service honoured the late husbands of the attending widows, with each name lovingly acknowledged in a heartfelt tribute. Fr Alvin’s homily offered a poignant metaphor, comparing grief to the process of preparing a dish.

He explained that, just as pounding ingredients bring out their full flavour, confronting and processing one’s emotions over time, allows them to blend — transforming sadness, anger, and love into a balanced harmony, where no single feeling dominates.

After the memorial, participants gathered in a supportive environment to share their personal experiences of grief. They were reassured that there is no “correct” path to healing and that grief is a deeply personal journey. Two facilitators, who had themselves faced the first Christmas without their husbands, shared their stories. Acknowledging the challenges of those early days, they offered hope and encouragement to the newly bereaved, showing that while healing takes time and effort, it is ultimately within reach.

The presence of several veteran widows added an element of solidarity. These women, who had walked the journey of loss and healing, stood alongside the newly bereaved, demonstrating that no one needs to face this journey alone. Their support and understanding were a source of great comfort for those just beginning their healing process.

For those walking a similar path, the Widow to Widow ministry offers a community of understanding, compassion, and support — where strength and hope can be found as you move forward in your journey of healing.

For more information about the Widow to Widow ministry, please contact Caroline Tay, Coordinator, at 012-7018185.