Asking why

Photo: knollzw for pixabay

The sudden loss of a family member is always difficult; it is even harder when that loss was caused by a loved one taking their own life.

Last year we were asked by British Transport Police to offer support to a lady whose brother had taken his life on the railway. This support was then provided by Chaplain Andrea Smyth. The lady had been attending an Alpha course at the time of her brother’s suicide. But now her grief had forced her to question faith and the existence of a loving and caring heavenly Father. She began her conversation with Andrea by saying she doesn't believe in God anymore, asking why a loving God would allow this to happen. Sometimes she wishes she were with her brother now, and has been visiting the station where he took his own life. As part of the support, Andrea also gave her some contact numbers of support organisations, because signposting to other organisations is an important part of what chaplains do for those we support, but Andrea also made sure she was available during evenings and weekends if she needed someone to talk to. When thinking about the future and this lady’s journey with God; Andrea says, ‘I’ve placed her in God's hands, and I trust that He will bring her through this time of grief and pain.‘