Star children in Borbeck: A loving place of remembrance is created

Star children in Borbeck: A loving place of remembrance is created

In a moving ceremony, the Borbeck-Vogelheim parish set up a new burial place for “star children” in the Matthäusfriedhof. These “star children” are those little souls who had to leave life during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Such losses represent immeasurable pain for parents and remind us of the importance of giving these young souls a dignified farewell. Local Compass reports that the memorial stele that now stands in the new resting place was made from Ruhr sandstone by the Essen stonemason Judith Sarlak. Their special design invites you to stroke the polished surfaces, which causes tones to sound in ascending or descending pitch.

“Do you know how many little stars there are?” - this is the beautiful inscription on the stele, which is intended to provide comfort and assure the relatives that the souls of the star children and their feelings are safe in God's love. Pastor Susanne Gutjahr-Maurer quotes a children's song and Psalm 147 for edification to support those who mourn in their difficult times. In addition, the names of the first three star children - Emma, ​​Lisa and Noah - were recorded on delicate metal stars attached to a sawn tree trunk. The aim is to create a place of remembrance and remembrance for the bereaved.

A long path to the dignity of the star children

The path to this dignified burial option was long and arduous. Elke Heinen founded a group for parents of star children in Schleswig 30 years ago, as until then there was no place worthy of burial for these children. Over 70 cemeteries have now been created in Schleswig-Holstein, offering quiet places for star children. At that time, the remains of many children often had to be disposed of as clinical waste. North Church highlights that VESH, the association for orphaned parents and grieving siblings, provides helpful information and support services for affected families.

Burials are increasingly in the light of social recognition, and since 2013 it has been legally possible for parents to register their star children in a civil registry office, regardless of their weight. Although many clinics offer community burials free of charge, the demand is often challenging for the affected parents, who have to actively request the burial. The pain and the need to say goodbye is extremely difficult for many parents of star children to bear.

Coping with grief: an important process

Coping with grief after the loss of a child - be it during pregnancy or shortly after birth - is an individual process that brings with it a variety of challenges. Star Child Mama explains that grief can be processed in different phases. It is crucial that family and friends support those who are grieving during their difficult times, even if it is often difficult to talk about the loss. They also give valuable tips, such as an open burial or organizing a loving funeral, to support the grieving process.

It is equally important for siblings of deceased children that their grief is heard and taken seriously. Getting involved in self-help groups can not only help you process your own grief, but also help others in similar situations. The desire to have a new child after a loss - a so-called rainbow baby - can also be part of the healing process. It shows that the hope for a happy future goes hand in hand with sadness and pain.

Conclusion: The new commemoration of Star Children at St. Matthew's Cemetery is more than just a place of peace; it is an important step towards more dignity and recognition for all the little souls who had to go far too soon. It shows that there is a place in the heart and in society for mourning, overcoming pain and preserving the memories of the lost children.