Meeting in person & by Zoom · Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
For every parent who is walking the road no parent wants to be on.
Seasons of Hope is a free, Catholic faith-centered support group for parents whose children are living in Heaven. All are welcome, no matter your denomination or beliefs. You don't have to explain the ache here. We already understand it.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." — Philippians 4:13
Why We Began
Founded by a mother who couldn't find this anywhere else.
Seasons of Hope began in 2026, after our founder, Lisa Torbenson, searched for a free, faith-based support group for Catholic bereaved parents near her home — and found none. So she built one. It remains the only free support group of its kind in Minnesota.
Her son Neil is living in Heaven, and his memory is at the heart of everything this ministry does: the Tuesday circle, the journals we write in together, and the quiet conviction that grief and faith are not opposites. They can sit in the same room.
Every session follows the Seasons of Hope journaling curriculum, and Lisa has been in direct correspondence with its author — grounding our group in a program built specifically for bereaved parents, not a generic grief group.
Child loss is unlike any other loss. It carries a grief that doesn't follow the usual timelines and isn't always understood, even by those who love us most. That is why this ministry needed to exist: a space that is free of charge, open to any bereaved parent, and rooted entirely in the comfort found through the sacraments, through Jesus and Mary, and through Scripture. We come together to find that comfort in our faith, side by side.
"Neil's favorite verse was Philippians 4:13. It was true for him, and it has become true for every parent who walks through our door."
"For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." — 2 Corinthians 4:17–18, Lisa's verse (Neil's Mom)
Neil's Heavenly Spice Co.
In Loving Memory — Neil's Blend
A memorial spice, created in Neil's honor by his twin brother and his mom — a small, tangible way to bring his memory to your table. "A Very Advanced Palate™," flavored by faith.
The Story Behind Neil's Blend
"I have a very advanced palate" — there were no truer words ever spoken by my 14-year-old son, Neil.
He loved bold flavors and unforgettable foods — from bloody marys and smoked quiche to dill and feta scones, lobster cheesecake, and smoked salmon chowder.
My sweet Neil went to live with Jesus at the tender age of 14. I created Neil's Blend to honor his adventurous spirit and love of food, alongside his twin brother, who helped bring it to life in his memory.
May this blend bring joy to your table and keep his memory alive with every sprinkle.
INGREDIENTS
Sea salt, garlic, onion, dill, black pepper, lemon peel, spices, and a touch of heat.
PERFECT FOR
Seafood, chicken, vegetables, soups, salads, eggs, and so much more.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." — Philippians 4:13
Size: 4 oz jar
How to order: Email us to arrange purchase and pickup or delivery — every jar sold supports the Seasons of Hope ministry.
Order Neil's Blend by Email
You Are Welcome Here
You don't have to carry this alone.
Whether you're ready for your first Tuesday or just have a question, we'd love to hear from you. There's no wrong time to reach out.
Email Seasons of Hope with Gmail
Where We Meet
Tuesday evenings — check our current calendar for this week's exact time.
St. Gerard's Catholic Church, 9600 Regent Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Join by Zoom
Can't attend in person? Email us for this week's Zoom link.
Parish St. Gerard's Catholic Church, 9600 Regent Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 — Neil's verse