Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

On November 9, a Mass of Remembrance was held at St. Louis Bertrand Church in Louisville, where 19 candles were lit to honor children who have passed away. Each candle bore the name of a child, symbolizing a loss experienced by their families. Approximately 50 attendees, including family members and siblings of the deceased, gathered for this annual event.

The Mass was organized by the Archdiocese of Louisville’s Office of Family and Life Ministries in collaboration with Red Bird Ministries' local chapter. Kathleen Byrnes, leader of the Louisville chapter, stated that Red Bird Ministries’ mission is "to experience healing through the sacraments of the Church."

The service commemorated children lost through miscarriage, infant death, or adult loss. Byrnes shared that for parents who have suffered such losses, the Mass offers "a tangible way to reflect on their child" and provides "a moment to seek peace in their loss."

The event also aligned with Pope Francis's November prayer intention for those who have lost a child. In an October video from the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, Pope Francis remarked on the profound pain parents face when losing a child: “When one spouse loses the other, they are a widower or a widow... But when a parent loses a child, there’s no word.”

Dominican Father Bartholomew Calvano officiated at the Mass and spoke about how grief from losing a child can be more intense than other types of grief. He offered advice on supporting grieving families and emphasized that "grief takes time and reoccurs at anniversaries." Father Calvano noted that public mourning can be an important part of processing grief: “So often this kind of loss... is kept quiet.”

Father Calvano also highlighted community support as essential during these times: “It’s a spiritual work of mercy to pray for the dead.” He encouraged people to attend funerals and offer practical help like meals.

Byrnes added that acknowledging someone’s loss is crucial because “grief is so delicate.” She advised people to walk alongside those grieving without trying to fix their sorrow.

In his homily, Father Calvano reassured grieving families about God’s love: “God does not forget any one of his children.” He urged them to share their burdens with God and others within their community.

Red Bird Ministries invites individuals across the archdiocese to join its monthly grief group meetings held every fourth Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., providing ongoing support for those dealing with loss.