Share Parents of Utah is non-denominational, though we respect that religious beliefs often impact how an individual processes loss and grieves. There are numerous religious perspectives, each highlighting the diversity in how different faiths approach the profound grief of pregnancy and infant loss. Each system offer unique rituals and beliefs to support grieving families. Families can adapt personal and religious beliefs to their situation however they see fit.
1. Christianity
In Christianity, pregnancy and infant loss are often viewed through the lens of faith and hope in eternal life.
- Roman Catholicism: The Catholic Church teaches that infants who die without baptism are entrusted to the mercy of God, reflecting the church’s belief in a loving and just God. The loss is often acknowledged through Masses, prayers, and support from the church community. There are also specific rituals like the “Mass of the Angels” for deceased infants..
- Protestantism: Many Protestant denominations emphasize the comfort and hope found in God’s love and the belief in eternal life. The grieving process often includes prayers, memorial services, and community support. Some denominations may have specific pastoral care programs for parents who experience pregnancy or infant loss.
- Mormonism (Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints): Mormons believe in the Plan of Salvation, which teaches that families can be together forever. Children who die before the age of eight are considered pure and automatically receive salvation. The community provides support through temple ordinances, including sealings, which bind families for eternity. Funerals focus on the hope of resurrection and eternal families, and priesthood blessings offer comfort. The belief in a pre-existence and an afterlife assures parents that they will be reunited with their lost children.
2. Islam
In Islam, pregnancy and infant loss are seen as a test of faith, with the belief that such children go straight to paradise.
- Beliefs and Practices: Muslims believe that children who die before reaching puberty are free from sin and will enter paradise. The community provides support through prayers, and the family is encouraged to have patience and trust in God’s plan. Rituals may include the Janazah (funeral prayer) and burial in accordance with Islamic customs, which are done promptly and respectfully .
3. Judaism
Judaism has various practices and beliefs regarding pregnancy and infant loss, often focusing on community support and religious rituals.
- Beliefs and Practices: Jewish law traditionally does not require a formal funeral for a baby who dies before reaching 30 days old, but mourning practices are increasingly observed. The community provides support through sitting shiva (a week-long mourning period) and saying Kaddish (a prayer for the deceased). There is also a strong emphasis on supporting the grieving parents emotionally and spiritually .
4. Hinduism
In Hinduism, pregnancy and infant loss are viewed through the concepts of karma and reincarnation.
- Beliefs and Practices: Hindus believe that the soul is eternal and may be reborn. The loss of an infant is often seen as a part of the soul’s journey. Rituals for pregnancy and infant loss may include specific prayers, offerings, and ceremonies to honor the soul and support its transition to the next life. These practices aim to bring peace to the grieving family and to the soul of the deceased child .
5. Buddhism
Buddhism emphasizes the impermanence of life and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
- Beliefs and Practices: In the case of pregnancy or infant loss, Buddhists may perform specific rituals to ensure a positive rebirth for the child’s soul. This may include chanting, making offerings, and performing ceremonies to transfer merit to the deceased. The community often provides support to the grieving family through these rituals and ongoing spiritual guidance .
6. Sikhism
Sikhism views life and death as part of God’s will and encourages acceptance of His will with grace.
- Beliefs and Practices: Sikhs believe that the soul is eternal and will be reunited with God. In the event of pregnancy or infant loss, Sikhs may recite prayers from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture) and seek comfort in the community. The focus is on accepting God’s will and finding solace in the belief that the child’s soul has returned to its divine source.
7. Native American Beliefs
Native American beliefs about pregnancy and infant loss vary widely among different tribes but generally emphasize the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
- Beliefs and Practices: Many Native American cultures view life and death as part of a continuous cycle. When a child is lost, it is believed that their spirit returns to the spirit world. Rituals and ceremonies, often led by spiritual leaders or medicine men, are conducted to honor the deceased and support the grieving family. These ceremonies may include prayers, songs, and offerings to ensure the child’s spirit is at peace. The community plays a significant role in providing support, reflecting the interconnectedness and collective healing within the tribe. Traditional practices might include returning the body to the earth in a natural manner, symbolizing a reunion with nature.These beliefs offer a deep sense of hope and an eternal perspective to grieving families.
Sources
- Roman Catholic Observances: Catholic Answers
- Protestant Practices: Protestant Bereavement
- Mormon Views: Plan of Salvation, Children and the Age of Accountability
- Islamic Views: Muslim Funeral Guide
- Jewish Customs: Chabad
- Hindu Practices: Hindu Rituals
- Buddhist Rituals: Buddhist Practices
- Sikh Beliefs: SikhNet
- Native American Beliefs: Native American Beliefs and Traditions, Grief and Bereavement in Native American Culture