First consolation in Salzgitter: Mourning accompaniment in the open air!

First consolation in Salzgitter: Mourning accompaniment in the open air!

In Salzgitter, a new place of encounter for mourners has been created today: the first consolation in the cemetery in Lebenstedt was ceremoniously opened. This initiative of the Hospiz initiative Salzgitter e.V. reflects the need for many people to find a place to pause and linger after the loss of a loved one. It is no secret that grief often goes hand in hand with loneliness and the feeling of loss of contact. That is why the volunteers of the initiative, including Monika Metze, Hanni Inschläger and Christiane Voss, launched the consolation to be a support in difficult times. According to Salzgitter.de, those affected can simply come by and take a seat on the bench without prior registration.

Every Wednesday afternoon from 2 p.m. the consolation bench is occupied by the urn graves collection field VIII, by trained mourning accompaniment, which are available for an open ear and a value -free exchange. This not only enables mourners to find consolation, but also listen to others and thus create a common space for emotional support. An indicative guide leads interested parties directly to the location. In addition to the bank, there is an info box with flyers from the hospice initiative that present further offers of the association.

a sign of commonality

The consolation bank is not only a popular retreat, but also a symbolic place of community in public space. Here it becomes clear how important it is to promote exchange about grief and loss. The idea has already been picked up nationwide in various cities, now it has also been realized for Salzgitter. As Hospiz-initiative-salzgitter.de, the Hospiz initiative has managed to create this valuable space, and thanks to the active support of volunteer and full-time strength.

The bank and the signs were made in the carpentry of the Christian youth village (CJD) and installed location, while the financing was ensured by private donors and the Salzgitter community foundation. A QR code on the info box enables access to consolation stories, consolation poems and even comforting music provided by the authors Doris Engels and Manuela Herzog. The offer should help the mourners to better process their emotions and feel less alone.

A look into the future

The Hospiz Initiative is already planning to draw up a second consolation in the forest cemetery in Salzgitter-Bad, which is made possible by the support of Christian Heinrich, the 1st chairman of the community foundation. This expansion shows that the need for such institutions is recognized and the appreciation for emotional support is growing in times of grief.

Despite the sadness that losses, there are also bright spots. Offers such as the consolation give people hope and let them know: they are not alone. Help and exchange are only a bank away, and this is a valuable consolation for many mourners.