This greatly complicates the grief process. The pastor should seriously consider how prepared his congregation is for death and the grief process. These areas are glossed over or totally omitted from the calendar of sermon topics. The congregation needs to be confronted with the reality of death and the eventuality of death. Many times pastors become so involved in the jobs associated with death that the emotions that need to be expressed, both by the pastor and by the hurting family, get lost.
Emotions have to be expressed.
Emotions have to be dealt with. Consider a visitation schedule. The type of loss situation will indicate how much special attention should be given to the bereaved. A loss of a child, death of a young spouse, suicide, etc. require additional attention. Don't leave it up to the bereaved to make the arrangements for a visit.