Privacy Policy
Last updated: October 28, 2026
My Grief Matters (mygriefmatters.com) is a ministry of Pastor Howard Smith. If you're here, you may be carrying a lot right now. You shouldn't have to wonder what happens to your information too. This page explains, in plain language, what we collect, why, and the choices you have.
The short version
We collect only what we need to send you what you ask for and to keep this website running. We never sell, rent, or trade your personal information. You can unsubscribe or ask us to delete your information at any time.
Information you give us
Email sign ups. When you ask for the free guide, a book announcement, or our emails, we collect your first name and email address.
Comments. When you leave a comment, we collect the name, email address, and website (if you add one) that you enter, along with your comment. Your name and comment are shown publicly once approved. Your email address is never shown.
Messages. If you email us, we keep your message and email address so we can reply.
Please don't share private health details or other sensitive information in a public comment. If you need to share something personal, email us instead.
Information collected automatically
Like nearly every website, our site and hosting company automatically record basic technical information when you visit. This can include your IP address, browser type, device type, the pages you view, and the date and time of your visit. We use it to keep the site secure, fix problems, and understand which articles are helpful.
Cookies
Cookies are small files your browser stores. We use them so the site works properly, to remember your comment details if you choose, to show sign up forms without showing the same one over and over, and to understand how the site is used. You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings. Some parts of the site may not work as well without them.
How we use your information
We use your information to send the free guide and the emails you signed up for, to share new articles and book announcements, to reply to your messages, to display and moderate comments, and to protect the site from spam and abuse.
Our email service
Our emails are sent through MailerLite, an email service that stores your name and email address on our behalf. MailerLite may record whether an email was opened or a link was clicked, which helps us know what's useful. Every email includes an unsubscribe link at the bottom. One click and you're off the list.
Who else sees your information
We share information only with the services that help us run this site, and only so they can do that job. These include our web host, our email service, and the tools that run our website, comments, and spam protection. We may also share information if the law requires it. We never sell your information.
How long we keep it
We keep your email address until you unsubscribe or ask us to delete it. Comments stay on the site unless you ask us to remove them. Technical records are kept only as long as they're useful for security and running the site.
Your choices and rights
You can unsubscribe from our emails at any time. You can also ask us to show you, correct, or delete the personal information we have about you. Depending on where you live, you may have other rights under privacy laws. Just email us and we'll help.
Children
This website is written for adults. We don't knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child has given us information, please contact us and we'll delete it.
Links to other websites
Our articles sometimes link to other websites, such as research sources or Bible websites. We aren't responsible for their privacy practices, so please read their policies too.
Changes to this policy
If we update this policy, we'll change the date at the top of this page.
Contact us
Questions about your privacy? Email Pastor Howard at howard@mygriefmatters.com.