For more than 25 years, GriefShare, a faith-based support group, has been helping the bereaved navigate the pain of losing a spouse, child, family member or friend. Although grief is as individual as the person experiencing the loss – and there is no “right way” to grieve – there are many common emotions and struggles. Others who have gone through their grief journey can often help others to find support and healing.
GriefShare features video seminars with grief experts, group discussions and workbooks for participants. It is a structured program with weekly topics that span approximately four months.
“Feel free to come and give it a try,” says Kate Gallaher Carson, who will be leading the session that begins on March 5 at St. Paul’s. Kate participated in GriefShare twice after the death of her spouse. “Some people are ready (to attend) immediately after a loss; some people need more time.
“Cathy Olsen and Marty Stinson will be the co-facilitators with me. They have gone through other grief programs at St. Paul’s and have a lot to offer.”
Although it is a Christ-centered program, many of the 20,000 participating churches have reported that more than half of the attendees (about one million to date and counting!) are not from their church and do not have an active spiritual life. Everyone is welcome.
Sessions will take place from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for 12 consecutive Thursdays, except for Holy Thursday
(April 2). Although there is a definite benefit to attending weekly, participants do not have to commit to doing so. The only cost is $20 for the workbook.
Registration is required and can be done by going to www.griefshare.org and clicking on “Find a Group” in the menu bar and entering “Bullville” in the search. You can also call the church office.