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Community members who have experienced the death of a family member or friend are invited to join the GriefShare program held at New Hope Christian Church, 3901 S. Center St., Marshalltown, beginning Sept. 8. There will be two different meeting times offered each Tuesday, to allow for more participants to attend. There will be an afternoon session offered from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and also an evening session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Both will be held in Classroom 10-12 (Southeast entrance/Door #3, take hall to the left, classroom is on the left).
GriefShare is a nondenominational program that features Christ-centered, biblical teaching, focusing on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. Many grieving people find that they are only beginning the work of healing when friends or family have returned to their daily routines, and that they are needing help in dealing with the challenges that grief brings.
This 13-week DVD seminar features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people sharing grief experiences, followed by a small group discussion. Each session covers a specific topic that stands alone, so individuals may begin attending at any point. Some of the DVD topics include: "Is This Normal?", "Your Grief Journey", "Loneliness and Sadness", "Self Care", "Fearful and Overwhelmed", "Anger", "Regrets", "Questions for God" and "Hope and Resilience."
Past participants have stated: "It's reassuring to know that others are going through similar struggles, and even though we all grieve differently, I found out that what I am going through is normal." Others have said, "Having a support community has been lifesaving!" "GriefShare helped me realize I am not alone."
The bereavement experience may be recent or not so recent. People will find encouragement, comfort and help in grieving the death of a spouse, child, parent, sibling, other family member or friend. No matter what the cause of the loved one's death, this is an opportunity to share with those who understand what a person is feeling and to learn from others as well. They will gain valuable strategies about how to face the new normal in life and renew hope for the future. Grief-related books/materials are also made available for participants to borrow.
To pre-register for this GriefShare group, go to www.griefshare.org, click on "Find a Group," enter the zip code and select group at New Hope Christian Church.
Those unable to register online or for any questions, call Carrie at 641-752-1612. Cost for materials: Suggested Donation of $20 for the workbook. Scholarships are available.