The Bereavement Care Program, known as “Fountain of Hope,” began in late 2023 with support from the Incheon province and the SND Congregational Fund. The funding from the SND Congregational Fund enabled the purchase of essential equipment and supplies to support families grieving the loss of loved ones.
Shortly after its inception, ten bereaved individuals were brought together through social media, personal referrals, and church bulletins. Following initial counseling sessions, they participated in an 8-week healing program held from April 16 to June 4, 2024. These sessions were followed by quarterly follow-up meetings to provide continued support.
In February 2025, the “Fountain of Hope” Bereavement Care Center officially opened its doors at the Notre Dame Education Center in Seoul. A Mass was held on March 14 to seek God’s blessing for the Center’s mission. From April 1 to May 20, 2025, twelve individuals completed the center’s second 8-week program.
Purpose and Approach
The bereavement care program is designed to support individuals coping with the profound grief and pain of losing a close family member, particularly a spouse or child. It offers a structured path to healing, helping participants navigate the emotional turmoil of bereavement.
Using psychological methods, the program addresses a range of emotions including grief, anger, frustration, and guilt. Through therapeutic activities, counseling, and group work, it guides families through their crisis and helps them gradually return to daily life. Over the course of eight weeks, participants are encouraged to share their experiences, empathize with one another, and find comfort in community—allowing space for mourning and the possibility of renewal.
Program Structure
The process begins with outreach through church bulletins and personal contact with bereaved individuals – spouses, children, and acquaintances. Once identified, participants begin counseling and are invited to join the structured 8-week program. After completion, ongoing care and follow-up meetings ensure continued emotional support.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the program aims to expand its reach. Research and development are needed to tailor support not only for spouses and children, but also for infants, adolescents, and young adults. Special attention is being directed toward families grieving the loss of loved ones due to suicide, recognizing the unique challenges they face.
The support provided by the SND Congregational Fund at the end of 2023 was instrumental in launching and sustaining the “Fountain of Hope.” This new apostolate in the Incheon Province reflects a contemporary expression of the SND charism—to proclaim God’s goodness and bring healing to those in deep sorrow.
Sr. M. Perpetua, SND
Regina Pacis Province, Incheon, South Korea
