“Grief is as much a fundamental part of being human and developing as a human being as love is.”
— Loss, Grief, and Existential Awareness by Mai-Britt Guldin and Carlo Leget
Loss comes in many forms. We can lose keys, games, jobs, homes, relationships, independence, pets, youth, mobility, potential, loved ones, innocence, and more. During our lives, we all encounter loss and are visited by its close companion, grief. In this discussion-based social science and theology course, we will explore the nature of loss in a broad sense and pursue a holistic understanding of this universal human experience. What impact does loss have on us? How is it related to grief? Why are we so often reluctant to admit or face loss? Can we ever “get over” loss? What can we learn from experiencing it? Readings will include insights from psychologists and scholars, a brief look at cultural and religious traditions, and personal accounts of those who have navigated loss. How we might journey through life’s inevitable losses in a meaningful way? Our guiding text will be Loss, Grief, and Existential Awareness, which addresses the physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual dimensions of loss and grief. Please note that this course approaches the topic of grief from an academic perspective and is not professional mental health assistance.
Required Text:
Participants must obtain a copy of the required texts at the bookstore or library of their choice.
Standard Tuition: $210.00
New Participant Tuition: $150.00
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 6:15 - 8:15 PM
Location: 3405 Atwater Ave
Course leaders: Imogen Brian, Matte Downey, Claire English
Please note that in the case of extenuating circumstances (e.g. a snowstorm) an in-person course may be temporarily held on Zoom.
First session: September 16 2026
Course length: 12 weeks
Degree credit: 3
Maximum number of participants: 18
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.
All course participants registering should read and abide by the Thomas More Institute Code of Conduct.
Refund Policy