Grief and loss are parts of living. None of us escape. How can you console someone when words can never be enough? In <em>The Gift of Encouragement</em>, author Marjorie Thompson offers practical help to give confidence and skill to pastors, Stephen ministers, congregational caregivers, and other persons serving those who need comfort.<br /><br />With a central message on the importance of encouragement, Rev. Thompson combines practical how-to’s with ways for pastors to introduce the spiritual disciplines for more hopeful and satisfied living. The book contains prayers, scriptures, suggestions for how to begin practicing spiritual disciplines, and thoughts about how faith in God can restore our courage and heart in times of loss. This small book gives real ways to help as you make visits, write notes, find appropriate scriptures and prayers, avoid clichés, and walk with others through dark and searching times.<br /><br />