In 2023, the US Surgeon General released a report on what they called “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation.” According to the report, the problem of loneliness isn’t just about feeling down. It’s one of the greatest threats to the health of our bodies and our society. Loneliness is linked to higher risks of heart problems, strokes, dementia, depression and anxiety, and premature death. Whether we’re looking at church spaces, workplaces, or our local community, one of the greatest causes of isolation is grief.

In the first of our two part episode we're joined by Hannah Wachter, a Grief Recovery Coach serving in the greater Portland area. Hannah also serves as the Minister of Music at the Pleasant Valley Church in Happy Valley, Oregon.

Together we explore how to make Christian spaces safe for grieving people. You can follow Hannah's work on Instagram or TikTok here: @stayroyalqueen