# Learning Center

The Learning Center provides information and guidance on a variety of topics including planning and coordinating a funeral to expressing condolences. It is designed to answer questions relating to grief, coping and loss and help you navigate the sensitive time of loss depending circumstances, religious traditions and more.

# Learning Center

[Expressing Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/index.html)

[What to Bring or Send](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/index.html)

[Grief and Coping](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/index.html)

## Expressing Condolences

Learn how to express condolences and provide help to someone after the loss of a loved one. Find articles and guidance on how to act, and what to say or write. LEARN MORE >>

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## Expressing Condolences

#### Search Learning Center:

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- [COVID-19 Guidance](/content/covid-19-coronavirus/ "COVID-19 Guidance"/index.html)  - [Social Distancing and Mourning](/content/covid-19-guidance/covid-19-coronavirus-social-distancing-mourning/index.html)
  - [Express Condolences During COVID-19](/content/covid-19-guidance/expressing-condolences-during-covid-19-coronavirus-pandemic/index.html)
  - [Grief & Mourning during COVID-19](/content/covid-19-guidance/grief-and-mourning-during-covid-19-coronavirus/index.html)
  - [A New Grief: Staying Connected to Help](/content/covid-19-guidance/new-grief-staying-connected-help-covid-19-coronavirus/index.html)
  - [Understanding Survivors Guilt](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-survivors-guilt/index.html)
  - [Loss, Grief and Gatherings During the Holiday Season](/content/covid-19-guidance/loss-grief-and-gatherings-during-holidays/index.html)
- [Expressing Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences "Expressing Condolences"/index.html)  - [How to Express Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/index.html)    - [How to Express Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/index.html)
    - [Listening](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/listening/index.html)
    - [Expressions of Deepest Sympathy](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/expressions-of-deepest-sympathy/index.html)
    - [Communicating After a Loss](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/communicating-after-a-loss/index.html)
    - [Sympathy Messages](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/sympathy-messages/index.html)
    - [Offering Condolences on Social Media](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/offering-condolences-on-social-media/index.html)
  - [Verbal Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/verbal-condolences/index.html)    - [Words to Express Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/verbal-condolences/words-to-express-condolences/index.html)
    - [What To Say](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/verbal-condolences/what-to-say/index.html)
    - [Words of Comfort](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/verbal-condolences/words-of-comfort/index.html)
  - [Written Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/index.html)    - [Sympathy Cards](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/sympathy-cards/index.html)
    - [Writing a Condolence Message](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/writing-a-condolence-message/index.html)
    - [Condolences By Text](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/condolences-by-text/index.html)
    - [Condolence Letters](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/condolence-letters/index.html)
  - [Sample Condolence Messages](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/sample-condolence-messages/index.html)
- [What to Bring or Send](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send "What to Bring or Send"/index.html)  - [Gifts of Condolence](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/gifts-of-condolence/index.html)
  - [Sympathy Baskets & Food](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-baskets-and-food/index.html)
  - [Sympathy Flowers vs. Sympathy Plants](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-flowers-vs-sympathy-plants/index.html)
  - [Sympathy Flowers](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-flowers/index.html)
  - [Appropriate Sympathy Gifts for Colleagues](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/appropriate-sympathy-gifts-for-colleagues/index.html)
  - [Sympathy Gift Considerations](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-gift-considerations/index.html)
  - [Plant a Tree to Honor and Commemorate](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/plant-a-tree-to-honor-and-commemorate/index.html)
  - [Thyme of Remembrance](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/thyme-of-remembrance/index.html)
  - [Visiting in Person](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/visiting-in-person/index.html)
  - [Why Plants Make Beautiful Sympathy Gifts](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/why-plants-make-beautiful-sympathy-gifts/index.html)
  - [Making a Donation](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/making-a-donation/index.html)
- [Planning & Coordinating](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating "Planning & Coordinating"/index.html)  - [Viewneral™ Collaborative and Interactive Virtual Funerals](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/viewneral-collaborative-and-interactive-virtual-funerals/index.html)    - [Virtual Funerals: How to Attend as a Guest](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/virtual-funerals-how-to-attend-as-guest/index.html)
    - [Guidance for Speakers at a Virtual Funeral Service](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/guidance-for-speakers-at-virtual-funeral-service/index.html)
    - [Virtual Memorial Gatherings: How to Attend](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/virtual-memorial-gatherings-how-to-attend/index.html)
  - [Funeral Preparations](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/index.html)    - [Post COVID-19 Planning a Funeral: “New Normal”](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/post-covid-19-planning-a-funeral-new-normal/index.html)
    - [Post COVID-19 Guide on Food Safety at Wakes and Memorial Gatherings](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/guide-on-food-safety-at-wakes-and-memorial-gatherings-post-coronavirus/index.html)
    - [Planning Your Own Funeral Service](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/planning-your-own-funeral-service/index.html)
    - [Planning a Wake](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/planning-a-wake/index.html)
    - [Planning a Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/planning-a-funeral/index.html)
    - [Pre-planning a Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/pre-planning-a-funeral/index.html)
    - [Preparing for a Memorial Service](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/preparing-for-a-memorial-service/index.html)
    - [Choosing a Funeral Home](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/funeral-preparations/choosing-a-funeral-home/index.html)
  - [Burial Arrangements](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/burial-arrangements/index.html)    - [Making Burial Arrangements](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/burial-arrangements/making-burial-arrangements/index.html)
    - [Preparing for the Burial of a Loved One](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/burial-arrangements/preparing-for-the-burial-of-a-loved-one/index.html)
  - [Obituaries & Eulogies](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/obituaries-and-eulogies/index.html)    - [How to Write an Obituary](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/obituaries-and-eulogies/how-to-write-an-obituary/index.html)
    - [How to Write a Eulogy](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/obituaries-and-eulogies/how-to-write-a-eulogy/index.html)
    - [Tips for Giving a Eulogy](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/obituaries-and-eulogies/tips-for-giving-a-eulogy/index.html)
  - [Religious Preparations](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/religious-preparations/index.html)    - [Preparing a Protestant Christian Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/religious-preparations/preparing-a-protestant-christian-funeral/index.html)
    - [Preparing a Shiva](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/religious-preparations/preparing-a-shiva/index.html)
    - [Preparing for a Roman Catholic Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/religious-preparations/preparing-for-a-roman-catholic-funeral/index.html)
  - [What 'To-Do' When Someone Dies](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/index.html)    - [What “To-Do” Immediately After Someone Dies](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/what-to-do-immediately-after-someone-dies/index.html)
    - [Important Actions to Take Prior to the Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/important-actions-to-take-prior-to-the-funeral/index.html)
    - [The Necessary End-of-Life Legal & Financial Actions](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/the-necessary-end-of-life-legal-financial-actions/index.html)
    - [Funeral Rule: Guidelines Governing Funeral Pricing](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/funeral-rule-funeral-pricing-guidelines/index.html)
    - [How to Budget for a Funeral and Understanding the Costs](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/what-to-do-when-someone-dies/how-to-budget-for-a-funeral-and-understanding-the-costs/index.html)
  - [Checklists](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/checklists/index.html)    - [Pre-Planning for a Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/pre-planning-for-a-funeral/index.html)
    - [Planning Your Own Funeral Service](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/planning-your-own-funeral-service/index.html)
    - [Planning a Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/planning-a-funeral/index.html)
    - [Preparing the Burial of a Loved One](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/preparing-the-burial-of-a-loved-one/index.html)
    - [Preparing for a Roman Catholic Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/preparing-for-a-roman-catholic-funeral/index.html)
    - [Preparing a Protestant Christian Funeral](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/preparing-for-a-protestant-christian-funeral/index.html)
    - [Preparing for A Memorial Service](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/preparing-for-a-memorial-service/index.html)
    - [Planning for a Wake](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/planning-for-a-wake/index.html)
    - [Preparing for a Shiva](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/preparing-for-a-shiva/index.html)
    - [Important Legal & Financial Documents](/content/learning-center/planning-and-coordinating/important-legal-financial-documents/index.html)
- [Grief & Coping](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping "Grief & Coping"/index.html)  - [Post-Covid19 Funerals, Gatherings & PTSD](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/post-covid19-funerals-gatherings-ptsd/index.html)
  - [Understanding Grief](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-grief/index.html)
  - [The Stages of Grief](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/index.html)    - [What Are the Stages of Grief?](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/what-are-the-stages-of-grief/index.html)
    - [First Stage of Grief: Denial](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/first-stage-of-grief-denial/index.html)
    - [Second Stage of Grief: Anger](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/second-stage-of-grief-anger/index.html)
    - [Third Stage of Grief: Bargaining](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/third-stage-of-grief-bargaining/index.html)
    - [Fourth Stage of Grief: Depression](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/fourth-stage-of-grief-depression/index.html)
    - [Fifth Stage of Grief: Acceptance](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/fifth-stage-of-grief-acceptance/index.html)
    - [Additional Stages of Grief](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-stages-of-grief/additional-stages-of-grief/index.html)
  - [A New Grief: Staying Connected to Help During COVID-19 Coronavirus](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-new-grief-how-families-grieve-and-navigate-emotions-after-a-loss/index.html)
  - [Understanding Coping](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-coping/index.html)
  - [How to Cope](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/index.html)    - [Coping with Special Circumstances](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/coping-with-special-circumstances/index.html)
    - [Grieving Loss at the Holidays](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-loss-at-the-holidays/index.html)
    - [Grieving Suicide](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-suicide/index.html)
    - [Grieving Death from Natural Causes](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-death-from-natural-causes/index.html)
    - [Grieving Death Following a Long-term Illness](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-death-following-a-long-term-illness/index.html)
    - [Grieving a Miscarriage](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-a-miscarriage/index.html)
    - [Grieving Death by a Sudden Loss](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-death-by-a-sudden-loss/index.html)
    - [The Loss of a Loved One and Stress](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/the-loss-of-a-loved-one-and-stress/index.html)
  - [Understanding Survivors Guilt](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-survivors-guilt/index.html)
  - [Choosing a Grief Center](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/choosing-a-grief-center/index.html)
- [Loss & Bereavement](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement "Loss & Bereavement"/index.html)  - [Understanding Loss](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/understanding-loss/index.html)
  - [Understanding Bereavement](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/understanding-bereavement/index.html)
  - [After Loss: The Days that Follow](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/after-loss-the-days-that-follow/index.html)
  - [Types of Loss](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/types-of-loss/index.html)
  - [Loss Based on Circumstances](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/types-of-loss/loss-based-on-circumstances/index.html)    - [Loss at Work](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-at-work/index.html)
    - [Loss in the Neighborhood](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-in-the-neighborhood/index.html)
    - [Loss by Disaster](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-by-disaster/index.html)
  - [Loss Based on Relationship](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/types-of-loss/loss-based-on-relationship/index.html)    - [Loss of a Pet](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-pet/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Parent](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-parent/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Grandparent](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-grandparent/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Sibling](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-sibling/index.html)
    - [Loss of an Estranged Parent](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-an-estranged-parent/index.html)
    - [Loss of an Ex-Spouse](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-an-ex-spouse/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Friend](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-friend/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Child](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-child/index.html)
    - [Loss of a Spouse](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-spouse/index.html)
- [Religion & Culture](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture "Religion & Culture"/index.html)  - [Understanding Religion](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-religion/index.html)
  - [Understanding Culture](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-culture/index.html)
  - [Religions](/content/learning-center/index.html)    - [Buddhism](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/buddhism/index.html)
    - [Catholicism](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/catholicism/index.html)
    - [Hinduism](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/hinduism/index.html)
    - [Islam](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/islam/index.html)
    - [Judaism](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/judaism/index.html)
    - [Protestant Christianity](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/protestant-christianity/index.html)
    - [Mormonism](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/mormonism/index.html)
    - [Shinto](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/shinto/index.html)
  - [Proverbs](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/proverbs/index.html)
  - [Psalms](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/psalms/index.html)
  - [Songs & Hymns](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/religious-songs-and-hymns/index.html)
- [Resources & Guides](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides "Resources & Guides"/index.html)  - [Books](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/books/index.html)
  - [Glossary & Definitions](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/glossary-and-definitions/index.html)
  - [Lyrics](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/quotes-and-lyrics/lyrics/index.html)
  - [Poems](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/poems/index.html)
  - [Proverbs](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/proverbs/index.html)
  - [Psalms](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/psalms/index.html)
  - [Quotes](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/quotes-and-lyrics/quotes/index.html)
  - [Guides](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/index.html)    - [Academic Guide](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/index.html)
    - [Workplace Guide](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/workplace-guide/index.html)

We have worked with grief specialists, social workers, psychologists, theologists and members of clergy to provide helpful advice and alternative viewpoints, appropriate for both secular and religious based individuals during a time of loss. In the Learning Center, you will find information on all aspects of planning for loss, mourning, and expressing condolences, including a more comprehensive explanation of grief and coping, the protocol following a death in the workplace or academic environment, suggestions on what to bring or send to a funeral or memorial service, and additional articles about mourning.

Each topic in the Learning Center presents a series of articles containing objective information and perspectives.

[Expressing Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/index.html)

[What to Bring or Send](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/index.html)

[Grief & Coping](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/index.html)

[Communicating condolences to those we care for can be a difficult task. In this section, learn how to express condolences and provide help to someone after the loss of a loved one. Find articles and guidance on how to act, and what to say or write.](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/index.html)

[Sympathy gifts are a kind gesture and considered a proper expression of condolences to those who are mourning. A tangible gift of condolence and sympathy offers support and encouragement during the difficult time. In this section, explore options, such as food baskets or donations, on how to express sincere sympathies through gifts of condolence.](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/index.html)

[Grief is the natural response to loss- and as we process through grief, we learn to cope. Understanding grief and what it means to cope are important first steps to recovery after the loss of a loved one. In this section, learn about the stages of grief and how to cope with special circumstances.](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/index.html)

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|  | [**Offering Condolences on Social Media**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/offering-condolences-on-social-media/index.html) |

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|  | [**Understanding Sympathy vs. Empathy**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/understanding-sympathy-vs-empathy/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sympathy Messages**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/sympathy-messages/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**How to Express Condolences**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/how-to-express-condolences/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**How to Express Condolences**](/content/learning-center/how-to-express-condolences/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sympathy Cards**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/sympathy-cards/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Writing a Condolence Message**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/writing-a-condolence-message/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Appropriate Sympathy Gifts for Colleagues**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/appropriate-sympathy-gifts-for-colleagues/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sympathy Gift Considerations**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-gift-considerations/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Why Plants Make Beautiful Sympathy Gifts**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/why-plants-make-beautiful-sympathy-gifts/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sympathy Flowers vs. Sympathy Plants**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/sympathy-flowers-vs-sympathy-plants/index.html) |

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|  | [**Visiting in Person**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/visiting-in-person/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Thyme of Remembrance™**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/thyme-of-remembrance/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**Plant a Tree to Honor and Commemorate**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/plant-a-tree-to-honor-and-commemorate/index.html) |

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| --- | --- |
|  | [**The ‘New Grief’: How Families Grieve and Navigate Emotions After a Loss**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/the-new-grief-how-families-grieve-and-navigate-emotions-after-a-loss/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Survivors Guilt**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-survivors-guilt/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Post-Covid19 Funerals, Gatherings & PTSD**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/post-covid19-funerals-gatherings-ptsd/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Choosing a Grief Center**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/choosing-a-grief-center/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Coping**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-coping/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Grief**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-grief/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Coping with Special Circumstances**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/coping-with-special-circumstances/index.html) |

[Loss & Bereavement](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/index.html)

[Religion & Culture](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/index.html)

[Resources & Guides](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/index.html)

[Bereavement is the immediate period of mourning experienced after a death. It is the state of having suffered a loss. The length of time that bereavement lasts varies, dependent upon many factors, including how close a relationship the bereaved has with the deceased and type of loss. In this section, learn about loss and bereavement, explore types of loss based on relationship or circumstance, and find ways to cope.](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/index.html)

[When a death occurs a variety of things impact the traditions, customs and practices observed that relate to the funeral, burial, memorial service, grieving process and honoring the departed. One of the strongest influences for the rituals of the funeral and the process of healing from grief is the religious background of the individual and respective level of observance. Practices of culture often affect the traditions and rituals that are involved in honoring the deceased but is not tied to a specific religion.](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/index.html)

[After the loss of a loved one knowing how to express your feelings and emotions to a friend, family member or co-worker is a very difficult. In this section find useful guides and suggested further reading, along with a glossary containing definitions of common words and rituals relating to sympathy.](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**After Loss: The Days that Follow**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/after-loss-the-days-that-follow/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss at Work**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-at-work/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss in the Neighborhood**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-in-the-neighborhood/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss by Disaster**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-by-disaster/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Pet**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-pet/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Parent**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-parent/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Grandparent**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-grandparent/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Religious Songs and Hymns**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/religious-songs-and-hymns/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Culture**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-culture/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Religion**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-religion/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Proverbs**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/proverbs/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Catholicism: Funeral & Burial Customs**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/catholicism/catholicism-funeral--burial-customs/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Catholicism: Periods of Mourning**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/catholicism/catholicism-periods-of-mourning/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Catholicism: Visiting the Cemetery**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/catholicism/catholicism-visiting-the-cemetery/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**When the School Loses a Student**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/when-the-school-loses-a-student/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Natural Disasters**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/natural-disasters/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**School Violence and Death**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/school-violence-and-death/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**When a Student Loses a Parent**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/when-a-student-loses-a-parent/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Fellow Faculty Member**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/loss-of-a-fellow-faculty-member/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Teacher**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/loss-of-a-teacher/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Student**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/loss-of-a-student/index.html) |

[Planning Center](/content/plan/index.html)

[Sending](/content/send-old-layout/index.html)

[Expressing Condolences](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/index.html)

Each topic in the Learning Center presents a series of articles containing objective information and perspectives.

## Expressing Condolences

Communicating condolences to those we care for can be a difficult task. In this section, learn how to express condolences and provide help to someone after the loss of a loved one. Find articles and guidance on how to act, and what to say or write.
[Read More](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sample Condolence Messages**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/sample-condolence-messages/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Words to Express Condolences**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/verbal-condolences/words-to-express-condolences/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Condolence Letters**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/condolence-letters/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Condolences By Text**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/condolences-by-text/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Sympathy Cards**](/content/learning-center/expressing-condolences/written-condolences/sympathy-cards/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**How to Express Condolences**](/content/learning-center/how-to-express-condolences/index.html) |

## What to Bring or Send

Sympathy gifts are a kind gesture and considered a proper expression of condolences to those who are mourning. A tangible gift of condolence and sympathy offers support and encouragement during the difficult time. In this section, explore options, such as food baskets or donations, on how to express sincere sympathies through gifts of condolence. [Read More](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Visiting in Person**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/visiting-in-person/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Thyme of Remembrance™**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/thyme-of-remembrance/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Gifts of Condolence**](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/gifts-of-condolence/index.html) |

## Grief & Coping

Grief is the natural response to loss- and as we process through grief, we learn to cope. Understanding grief and what it means to cope are important first steps to recovery after the loss of a loved one. In this section, learn about the stages of grief and how to cope with special circumstances. [Read More](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Coping**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-coping/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Grief**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/understanding-grief/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Grieving Loss at the Holidays**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-loss-at-the-holidays/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Grieving Suicide**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-suicide/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Grieving Death from Natural Causes**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-death-from-natural-causes/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Grieving Death Following a Long-term Illness**](/content/learning-center/grief-and-coping/how-to-cope/grieving-death-following-a-long-term-illness/index.html) |

## Loss & Bereavement

Bereavement is the immediate period of mourning experienced after a death. It is the state of having suffered a loss. The length of time that bereavement lasts varies, dependent upon many factors, including how close a relationship the bereaved has with the deceased and type of loss. In this section, learn about loss and bereavement, explore types of loss based on relationship or circumstance, and find ways to cope. [Read More](/content/learning-center/what-to-bring-or-send/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss at Work**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-at-work/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss by Disaster**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-circumstances/loss-by-disaster/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Parent**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/loss-based-on-relationship/loss-of-a-parent/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Bereavement**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/understanding-bereavement/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Loss**](/content/learning-center/loss-and-bereavement/understanding-loss/index.html) |

## Religion & Culture

When a death occurs a variety of things impact the traditions, customs and practices observed that relate to the funeral, burial, memorial service, grieving process and honoring the departed. One of the strongest influences for the rituals of the funeral and the process of healing from grief is the religious background of the individual and respective level of observance. Practices of culture often affect the traditions and rituals that are involved in honoring the deceased but is not tied to a specific religion. [Read More](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Religious Songs and Hymns**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/religious-songs-and-hymns/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Culture**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-culture/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Understanding Religion**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/understanding-religion/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Proverbs**](/content/learning-center/religion-and-culture/proverbs/index.html) |

## Resources & Guides

After the loss of a loved one knowing how to express your feelings and emotions to a friend, family member or co-worker is a very difficult. In this section find useful guides and suggested further reading, along with a glossary containing definitions of common words and rituals relating to sympathy. [Read More](/content/learning-center/death-and-mourning/index.html)

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Natural Disasters**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/natural-disasters/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Teacher**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/loss-of-a-teacher/index.html) |

|     |     |
| --- | --- |
|  | [**Loss of a Student**](/content/learning-center/resources-and-guides/guides/academic-guide/loss-of-a-student/index.html) |

## [Planning Center](/content/planning-center/index.html)

[Tools and resources to support and assist you with planning or contributing to a funeral.](/content/planning-center/index.html)

## [Sending](/content/send/index.html)

[Browse to find traditional foods, baked goods, and more to express appropriate condolences.](/content/send/index.html)

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