Wendy Werner
CherryRoad Media
On Nov. 17, 2024, Luther Memorial Church ELCA in Syracuse is hosting “Surviving the Holidays”, a GriefShare Program. All community members who have experienced the death of a family member or friend are invited to attend. There will be two, two-hour sessions, one at 9 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. There is no fee, but attendees are asked to RSVP by calling LMC at 402.269.2360.
According to a press release prepared by LMC, the GriefShare Program is described as a “program friendly to all denominations, which features Christ-centered teachings that are focused 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 small group discussion about what was seen on the DVD.” The press release also said GriefShare has a long history and is considered one of the top grief recovery programs in the world.”
The press release further said, “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 subjection to certain emotions. You will learn valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future. “
Luther Memorial Church is expanding their Outreach program, the objectives of which are reaching out and engaging the community with God’s Love and using their time and talents through a variety of projects to share the news of God’s Love.
Recognizing a need in their congregation and the community, Luther Memorial Church purchased the GriefShare program and trained four facilitators. In addition to the seminars on November 17th, LMC is offering a 13-week program, the first of which is currently underway. The next 13-week session will be held on Wednesdays 12-1:30 p.m. beginning January 15, 2025 and running through April 9, 2025. An evening session is anticipated for the fall of 2025. Memorials are funding the GriefShare program. The current 13-week program is being funded by memorials given in memory of Larry Obermeyer. The “Surviving the Holidays” sessions are in memory of Brad Berner.
For questions about GriefShare, call Luther Memorial Church at 402.269.2360.
