Loss 4: Listen For Feelings - Karen Schoehals and Jim Logan

This session addresses the theological and practical challenges of helping children process grief and express emotions within a Christian context. It argues that suppressing feelings contradicts the biblical mandate for authentic communion and that leaders must first process their own losses to effectively support others. The discussion emphasizes the importance of listening for underlying emotions rather than focusing solely on content, while avoiding clichés that can harm children's understanding of death and God's character. It highlights the role of Good News Clubs in providing a safe environment for unconditional love, trust, and the development of a healthy value system. Finally, it offers specific guidance on explaining death to children, encouraging the expression of negative feelings, and navigating the complex dynamics of forgiveness and abuse with pastoral care.