A Cry for Spiritual Help When A Child Is Dying

The death of a child is a lonely and difficult time for parents. Others’ company and understanding may provide slight and temporary comfort, but in the long run, parents

have to find their own way out of this web of questions, doubt, and grief. Parents may have many questions. Is my child still in pain? Will I see my child again? What happens after death? How do I move on after my child’s death? One way many parents have helped themselves is by seeking spiritual confirmation and comfort. By healing the spirit parents have been able to accept and understand their child’s death.

A study in the September issue of Pediatrics shows that there is a cry for spiritual help when a child is dying. There are things parents need to know about life after their child’s death that only spiritual guidance can fulfill. This study conducted by Rev. Mary Robinson, MA, MDiv and Elaine Meyer, PhD, RN, found that even though parents did not state it directly in their answers to questionnaires, many parents find spiritual guidance comforting when a child is dying.