Winner of a third-place award in the front cover artwork category from the Catholic Media Association.
When a child dies, a father’s grief is often overlooked or misunderstood. Cultural expectations, a man’s traditional role in the family, and a lack of emotional support can push his pain into the background. The Grief of Dads was written by Catholic fathers who have experienced this loss at every stage and circumstance, offering companionship, spiritual guidance, and honest support for men who mourn.
This book reminds grieving fathers that they are not alone. Through stories, reflections, and practical tools, the authors help men find healing and peace through faith.
Patrick O’Hearn and Bryan Feger, together with Ryan Breaux of Red Bird Ministries, seek to normalize conversations about men’s grief and provide a space where fathers can process loss with others who understand. Drawing from Scripture, the lives of saints, and the wisdom of the Church, they show how faith can bring comfort and meaning even amid devastating sorrow.
The authors share their own journeys along with the experiences of seven other fathers who have turned to the sacraments, prayer, and community for hope and strength. The book includes:
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Resource lists for grieving parents
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Journaling space for personal reflection
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Prayers and spiritual meditations
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Letters of encouragement and support
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Guidance for friends, family, and pastors walking with grieving fathers
A special chapter written by Kelly Breaux, cofounder of Red Bird Ministries, offers insight and comfort to wives who share in this journey of loss.
About the Authors
Patrick O’Hearn is a Catholic author of several books, including Nursery of Heaven: Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss in the Lives of the Saints and Today’s Parents. He earned degrees from St. Ambrose University and Franciscan University of Steubenville and is a member of the Knights of Columbus. O’Hearn founded Contemplative Heart Press and works as a freelance editor and literary consultant. He and his wife, Amanda, lost two of their four children to miscarriage and live in North Carolina.
Bryan Feger is a scientist and medical writer with degrees from Augustana College and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. A member of the Knights of Columbus, he serves as a catechist and participates in prison ministry. After losing three children to miscarriage, he felt called to help other fathers process their grief and find healing. He lives with his wife and son in Durham, North Carolina.
Ryan Breaux is the cofounder of Red Bird Ministries, an organization that helps parents find healing after the loss of a child. With his wife, Kelly, he partners with dioceses and parishes to support families facing this tragedy. Ryan also coauthored Restoring Love and contributes to Red Bird’s group programs and the Hallow app. He works as a key account manager for Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, serves as an alderman, and is a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Red Bird Ministries was founded by Kelly and Ryan Breaux following the loss of their four children. The organization equips dioceses and parishes with resources to support families who have experienced the death of a child, from pregnancy through adulthood.
