When a Child Dies: The Impact of Being a Christian

The death of a child is one of the most stressful events that a parent can experience. For a bereaved parent, the child's death represents an experience that involves separation and loss, feelings of failure and guilt, and an undermining of basic beliefs. Yet, for the Christian, it is suggested that five important sources of comfort are available to the bereaved parent: (a) faith in a good and powerful God, (b) knowledge of God's Word, (c) relationship with Jesus Christ, (d) an indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and (e) a fellowship of believers. Through these sources of comfort, a bereaved parent can profit by the Christian faith, although some potential risks in implementing the faith are present.