By John Montgomery, Dwell Grief Ministry
Beginning January 12th, the Dwell Grief Ministry will offer a workshop called “Navigating your Grief” at the Main Campus Cafe, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. This is a 10-week workshop designed to support, educate, and equip those who are grieving the death of a loved one.
After a funeral when family and friends have moved on, navigating through the emotions of grief can be very lonely and isolating. Grief can leave you feeling sad, angry, anxious, shocked, regretful, relieved, overwhelmed, isolated, irritable and/or numb. Unresolved grief can cloud perspectives, cause depression, and result in unhealthy lifestyles and destructive behavior. Many grieving people are unprepared for the intensity of these emotions and the duration of their grief. Many feel alienated from God and others. Many worry that they aren’t grieving the “correct” way.
“This is one of those things, paradoxically, that can make grief last longer,” writes Dr. Katherine Shear, professor of psychiatry and founding director of the Center for Prolonged Grief at the Columbia School of Social Work. “So, it’s important to accept grief, with its intense emotional pain, and understanding that there is no right way — and also no wrong way — to grieve.”
Why attend Navigating Your Grief? Whether your loss is recent or in the remote past, this workshop can be beneficial to your understanding of grief and mourning. This workshop will help you:
- better understand of the effects of grief on your life,
- receive support and comfort from interacting with others in grief,
- develop a clearer theology on pain and suffering, and
- identify ways to use your experience to minister to others.
“After my father’s death, I went through the most painful year of my life. The grief group meetings were the highlight of my week. I loved the fellowship and just being with people who knew what I was going through. I pray that more people will use the grief classes to help them through their grief.” — Karli A.
What happens at Navigating Your Grief? Each meeting lasts no more than 90 minutes. At a typical meeting:
- a past grief group member is interviewed regarding their grief experience.
- a 20 to 25 minute video is shown, addressing pertinent grief topics.
- small groups are formed to discuss the video (but no one is required to speak).
“The Grief Ministry helped me to feel normal about the things I was going through. It enabled me to work on my grief instead of stuffing it down. It reignited my prayer life. It lead me to meet wonderful people who were experiencing similar things. All of the facilitators were extremely humble and genuine and communicated God’s love with patience and compassion.” — Kat N.
Do you have to attend all 10 sessions? While it’s ideal for someone to attend all 10 sessions, each weekly session is designed to be “self-contained,” meaning a person can begin attending at any time. Members will find comfort, encouragement, and hope in every session!
“The videos helped me understand what I’m going through better (including physical symptoms), as well as learning how to deal with grief in my daily life. It was very practical.” — Celene B.
Is Navigating Your Grief appropriate for non-Christians? If someone is hostile towards the idea of God, then this workshop probably would not be appropriate. However, if someone is open to spiritual discussions, Navigating Your Grief can help them move forward on their spiritual path. Each session discusses Biblical principles and the gospel message is explained in a meaningful way.
“I loved how insightful and God-centered the grief program was. It helped me address many aspects of my grief with God. I greatly enjoyed breaking into small groups and connecting with others.” — Andrew P.
How do I register? You can register online at the Dwell class registration page. The cost is $15 standard and $10 reduced which covers the cost of the workbook. Scholarships are available.
For more info, email grief@dwellcc.org.