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Mourning Cloak

Professional Services

Juha Itkonen giving a lecture on grief

Lectures and Keynotes

I offer lectures, training sessions, and talks on grief, love, loss, and the finiteness of life — themes that touch us all. My work draws on years of research, pastoral experience, and walking alongside people in times of sorrow. I approach these topics both scientifically and humanly, combining knowledge, stories, and the perspective of hope.

My lectures are suitable for parishes, educational institutions, health and social care professionals, volunteers, organizations, and communities that want to deepen their understanding of grief, empathy, and meaningful encounter.

Examples of lecture topics

  • The Many Faces of Grief – what grief is and how it transforms us
  • Love Never Disappears – Grief as the Shadow of Love
  • The Art of Presence – how to be with someone in pain
  • As a Workplace in Grief – supporting a colleague or client after loss
  • The Mortal Human Being – accepting the limits of life
  • Hope and Meaning Beyond Loss – spiritual and existential perspectives

Leadership and Human Wisdom

I also lecture and train on leadership — especially on what humane, ethical, and sustainable leadership means in a changing world. My approach integrates classical wisdom, a theological view of humanity, and extensive practical leadership experience. I explore leadership as both an organizational responsibility and a personal journey of growth.

A key part of my work is spiritual leadership — leadership rooted in calling, listening, and the shared search for purpose. It combines values, prayer, presence, and nurturing the spiritual life of a community as an inseparable part of leadership.

Examples of leadership themes

  • Leading Through Crisis and Change – staying centered and humane in difficult times
  • The Leadership of Presence – empathy, deep listening, and meaningful dialogue at work
  • The Vulnerable Leader – the courage to be human while bearing responsibility
  • Spiritual Leadership – how leaders can strengthen a community’s sense of calling and trust
  • Stoic and Christian Leadership – wisdom from ancient philosophy and the Bible for today’s leaders
  • Leadership and Hope – building resilience and meaning in work communities
  • Ethical Compasses – acting with integrity and fairness under pressure

Consulting and Mentoring

I provide consulting and mentoring for organizations, parishes, and work communities that wish to deepen their understanding of humanity, grief, and leadership. The goal is to support communities through change, develop leadership culture, and strengthen both professional and spiritual resilience.

Examples of consulting services

  • Evaluating and developing organizational culture
  • Coaching leadership teams and supervisors in humane and ethical leadership
  • Strengthening spiritual leadership and shared purpose
  • Post-crisis evaluation and community recovery
  • Designing trainings and development programs on grief, hope, and compassion
  • One-on-one mentoring for leaders and professionals

All consulting processes are tailored collaboratively to support each organization’s core mission and the well-being of its people.

Strategic Development and Community Renewal

I also assist in strategic planning and organizational development — especially when there is a need to align core mission, values, and practical action. My aim is to help communities clarify their direction, strengthen their shared meaning, and find hope amidst change.

Examples of strategy themes

  • From Values to Action – translating principles into everyday decisions
  • Core Mission and Future Direction – clarifying purpose and building a realistic, hope-driven vision
  • Participatory Strategy Work – engaging staff and volunteers in shaping the future
  • Spiritual Strategy Building – integrating spiritual calling and practical leadership
  • Resilience and Long-Term Thinking – strategic work amid uncertainty and change
  • Faith-Based and Communal Strategy – connecting spiritual, ethical, and human perspectives in leadership

In all strategy processes, I emphasize shared understanding, attentive listening, and a step-by-step approach — aiming not just for a document, but for a living, shared direction that guides everyday work.

Formats and Customization

All services can be delivered in person, online, or as part of broader training and development programs. Each session or process is tailored to the audience and goals — from inspiring keynote lectures to long-term collaboration and consulting partnerships.