Imagine Hosts Powerful Panel on Faith, Loss, and Spirituality

Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss, hosted its second “Faith, Loss and Spirituality” panel on March 5 at its center in Mountainside. The event marked the second installment of the 2026 Rabbi Earl Grollman Grief Education Series and drew a full room of attendees seeking insight, connection, and shared understanding around grief.

The panel featured a diverse group of faith leaders and speakers, including Rev. Alison V. Philip of First United Methodist Church in Westfield, Pastor Christopher Flynn of Renaissance Church in Springfield, Rabbi Victor Appell of Temple Emanu-El in Westfield, Reverend Eyesha Marable of Mt. Zion AME Church in Millburn, and Marie Thompson of Masjid As-Habul Yameen in East Orange. Through a blend of personal stories and professional perspectives, panelists explored the role faith and spirituality can play in the grieving process, and how experiences with loss shape the ways individuals support others in times of need.

A central theme of the evening was the importance of presence in supporting those who are grieving. Panelists emphasized that meaningful support does not require perfect words or actions, but rather a willingness to simply show up—quietly, consistently, and without expectation. The discussion also highlighted how individuals may either lean into or move away from their faith traditions following loss, underscoring the deeply personal nature of grief.

The conversation was thoughtfully moderated by Imagine staff member Minister Najiyyah Bailey, whose guidance helped foster an inclusive and compassionate space for dialogue.

“This evening was a powerful reminder of the connection and comfort that can be found when people come together to share their experiences with grief,” said Bailey.

The Rabbi Earl Grollman Grief Education Series continues to provide opportunities for education, reflection, and community engagement around loss and healing. The series is made possible through the generous support of Jeff and Eleanor Peris.

Imagine extends its sincere gratitude to all who attended and contributed to the success of this meaningful event.

Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss is a 501c3 that offers training and education on loss and grief to the community and free year-round grief support groups for children ages 3-18 and young adults 19-30 who are coping with a loss due to death. Concurrently, support groups are available for the parents and caregivers of the children in the groups and offered in English and Spanish. Imagine has centers in Newark and Mountainside and offers virtual groups as well. For more information, please contact Imagine at 908-264-3100 or info@imaginenj.org or visit our website at www.imaginenj.org.