254. I can understand the anguish felt by those who have lost a much-loved person, a spouse with whom they have shared so much. Jesus himself was deeply moved and began to weep a the death of a friend (cf. Jn 11:33, 35). And how can we even begin to understand the grief of parents who have lost a child? "It is as if time stops altogether; a chasm opens to engulf both past and future". and "at times we even go so far as to lay the blame on God. How many people - I can understand them - get angry with God".281 "Losing one's spouse is particularly difficult... From the moment of enduring a loss, some display an ability to concentrate their energies in a greater dedication to their children and grandchildren, finding in this experience of love a renewed sense of mission in raising their children... Those who do not have relatives to spend time with and to receive affection from, should be aided by the Christian community with particular attention and availability, especially if they are poor".282
281 Catechesis (17 June 2015): L'Osservatore Romano, 18 June 2015, p. 8.
282 Relatio Finalis 2015, 19.
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