In order to accomplish the task of assisting those whose lives are negatively affected by grief, Walking The Mourner’s Path was started in 1995 by The Rev. Danielle Morris in response to an unmet need for long-term, meaningful psychological and spiritual comfort for those who mourn. This was accomplished by training clergy and laity to lead Christ-Centered grief support courses in congregations and other settings.
Originally based at All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park, Florida, this ministry has trained hundreds of course facilitators and conducted support workshops throughout the country. The value of this work gained national recognition when, in conjunction with the Episcopal and Lutheran churches, Mourner’s Path trainers taught local religious and lay leaders to offer GriefRelief in New York after the “911” tragedy.
St. Anthony on the Desert Episcopal Church in Scottsdale purchased this highly acclaimed Christian bereavement program in 2005 and now operates it as part of its Center for Health & Reconciliation. This international ministry is operational in 26 states, Canada, Australia and the Cayman Islands.
Walking The Mourner’s Path differs from many ongoing “grief support groups” in that as research has shown, structured programs with a beginning and an end are far more successful. The Mourner’s Path course consists of one and a half hour sessions for eight consecutive weeks and limits participants to ten. Each session has two facilitators plus a member of the clergy present.
The program is a ministry distinct from other bereavement programs in that it is Christ-centered, scripturally sound and church based. Walking the Mourner’s Path is not group therapy but is spiritually directed.
In addition to a Corporate Staff in Scottsdale, there are more than 100 Certified Facilitators and Facilitator Trainers located throughout the United States and abroad.