Grieving is probably the hardest work we will ever do. Experiencing grief is a normal and natural reaction to the loss of a loved one. Grief is not a sign of weakness, and it is not a lack of faith. “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

What can you expect from a grief support group?

  • Offers support and connection that comes from being with people who have also experienced the loss of a loved one.
  • Provides a “safe” place where an atmosphere of warmth and trust is created where you can express your feelings freely, knowing that others will be understanding, non-judgmental and supportive.
  • Helps group members experience a sense of hope and healing.
  • Helps group members understand that other people have experienced similar problems and feelings, so they know they are not alone in facing grief.

For more information on adult grief support group ministry at our church, contact Sandy Goad at 304-651-4949 or contact the Church office at 304-872-3221. We do not have any dates set at this time.

For information on Kid Talk/Rainbows for all Children, contact Dottie Hall at 410-746-5995.

Kid Talk/Rainbows for All Children

Kid Talk is a 13-week faith-based grief support group for children ages 6-12 years. It is for any child who has lost a friend or loved one through death.

Rainbows for All Children is a 13-week grief support group for kids ages 3-18 years. It is for any child who has lost a friend or loved one through death, separation, divorce, drug addiction, incarceration, foster care or abandonment. 

For more information, contact Dottie Hall at 410-746-5994 or contact Memorial UMC Office at 304-872-3221.

Adult Grief Support Ministry

Grieving is probably the hardest work we will ever do. Experiencing grief is a normal and natural reaction to the loss of your loved one. It is concrete proof that you are a normal, real live human being. Grief is not a sign of weakness and it is not a lack of faith. “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

Some of you are just beginning this journey and some of you have been on this journey for a while. It is often frightening, painful, overwhelming and lonely; but you don’t have to do it alone.

One of the best tools to assist you in your healing process following the death of a loved one is participating in a grief support group. This ministry is an 8-week, faith-based program that specifically addresses topics and issues on grief.

Each session you will view a video about grief issues, featuring in-depth interviews from over 40 leading experts on grief recovery topics and personal stories of people who have experienced the death of a loved one. After viewing the video, you will have the opportunity to participate in group discussion. Each participant will have their own workbook. The workbook provides opportunity for further study about the grief process and personal reflection.

As you do your work of grieving, you are moving toward a renewed sense of meaning and purpose in your life. Your feelings of loss will not completely disappear, yet they will soften, and the intense pangs of grief will become less frequent. Hope for a continued life will emerge as you are able to make commitments to the future, realizing that your loved one will never be forgotten, yet knowing that your life can move forward.

Grief is too heavy of a burden to carry alone.