Community members who have experienced the death of a family member or friend are invited to register for the GriefShare program beginning later this month at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th St., Indianapolis.
This nondenominational program features Christ-centered, biblical teaching that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. The DVD seminar features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people, followed by a small group discussion about what was seen on the DVD.
Many grieving people find they are only beginning the work of healing when friends or family have returned to their daily life routines. Past participants have related how helpful the information and follow-up discussions were to them.
Your bereavement experience may be recent or not so recent. You 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 your loved one’s death, this is an opportunity to be around people who understand what you are feeling.
You will learn how to recognize the symptoms of being stuck in grief and that you do not need to live in bondage as a slave to certain emotions. You will learn valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future.
“This has been a life-altering fellowship for so many who have attended and found God’s comfort,” said Mary Katherine Schnitz, Director of Care Ministry for St. Luke’s. “Many have attended two or more of the 13-week sessions and have found meaningful ways to cope and survive their pain of loss.”
Grief-related books/materials are made available for participants to borrow. GriefShare will be held from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. every Wednesday evening starting Aug. 22 in the Parlor room of St. Luke’s, 100 N. 86th St. To register or for questions, call Laura Marine at 317-846-3404 or email marinel@stlukesumc.com. Participation is free but there is a $20 workbook donation requested; however scholarships are available.