Writing from the Heart-Signing Hearts of Mercy & Compassion

Following the Holy Spirit's Lead

Signing a Heart of Mercy & Compassion is more than just a simple act. It is an opportunity to provide comfort and support to a family who is grieving the loss of a loved one. It often prompts a reflective pause as individuals consider how best to express their support.

Recently, Christ the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma engaged in this compassionate practice to support the town of Fordyce, Arkansas, encountering similar uncertainties among congregation members.

Ministry coordinator Eric Wendelbo remarked, "They said, 'I don’t know what to write,' I smiled and just said, 'Yes.' After a moment or two, I suggested they write what the Holy Spirit put on their heart."

This approach underscores the importance of sincerity and allowing one's faith to guide the message. By encouraging individuals to write from their heart, recognizing the Holy Spirit's prompting, we can offer messages that reflect God’s love.

At the recent funeral in Michigan, a touching moment occurred when a young girl drew a symbol—a simple, poignant heart.

Beside that, her mother signed, "Much love" along with their family names.

This act of signing not only expressed condolences but also served as a visible symbol of support during this challenging time of grief, support transcending generations.

At another vigil recently, high school friends wrote messages that bring memories of the friends they lost, speaking of their smile and laugh or an inside joke that takes a personal tone.  It is also common to add Scripture references like were added - Romans 8:18 and Psalm 62:2 – messages that hold great encouragement for a believer.

At memorial sites across the nation, individuals are encouraged to contribute personal messages on the hearts. The HMC placard at the memorial site invites visitors to share memories of the person, offer words of encouragement or a message of hope.  In Rockford, Illinois, earlier this year, a young visitor bowed his head in contemplation as he deliberated over what to inscribe on a Heart of Mercy & Compassion. Similarly, in Charlotte, North Carolina, vigil attendees solemnly penned messages in honor of first responders who had died in the line of duty.

Often, the overflow of heartfelt messages extends to encompass the arms and legs of the cross. This abundance of support surrounding a family is a profound blessing indeed!

Messages of gratitude also fill the hearts when we gift hearts to honor veterans, first responders, church workers, or volunteers. These heartfelt tributes express deep appreciation for their dedicated service and selfless contributions.

By trusting in the Holy Spirit, individuals can offer words of love, hope, and compassion that will be cherished by the family for years to come. Anyone can contribute to this mission by signing or gifting  a Heart of Mercy & Compassion to someone in need. Let us all come together to offer comfort and support during life's most difficult moments.

CLICK HERE to learn more how you can request a Heart of Mercy & Compassion for someone in need.

LEARN MORE & DONATE - HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION