| "The finality of death is hard to accept, and that's what a grief group is about...is getting you to accept that reality...so that you can go on with your life." ~ Virgil
"I felt like I had a big hole in my heart." ~ Melissa
"I didn't feel like being around people, I didn't want to talk...it's like I didn't really care." ~ Kim
"I don't think we should ever apologize for our tears." ~ H. Norman Wright
"Emotions are probably the least controllable thing about our existence." ~ Dr. Larry Crabb
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Focus on Grief (FOG) is a ministry here at Lindenwald Church reaching those who are experiencing loss . . . loss of a family member, friend, or pet; loss of the health of a family member; or any other loss. The focus of this ministry will be helping individuals and families work thorugh grief which is a natural part of loss. The intention is not to focus on solving grief problems, but to offer a time and place where individuals can come together in an atmosphere of love, support, and healing. Persons may attend as many sessions as they desire; actively participate in small group discussions or sit quietly reflecting and letting God minister. The duration of each session is approximately an hour. Those who need a ride may contact any team member. If this ministry speaks to you or to someone you know, please plan to attend and encourage others to come also. The current session has ended, but a new session will start in the near future.
Grief is like a tunnel - the bad part is that it is dark inside and the good part is that there is light at the end. Journeying through the darkness of the tunnel can be easier if you have other caring Christians walking beside you.
For further information, email our Focus on Grief leaders.
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Video Seminars
GriefShare video sessions are designed to help you successfully travel the journey from mourning to joy. You are welcome to begin attending the Focus on Grief group at any session. Each is "self-contained," so that you do not have to attend in sequence. You will find encouragement and help whenever you begin.
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When Your Dreams Fall Apart
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The Seasons of Grief
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The Emotions of Grief (Part 1)
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The Emotions of Grief (Part II)
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When Your Spouse Dies
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Your Family and Grief
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Where is God?
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Your Greatest Resource
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Stuck in Grief or Moving On
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Growing Through Grief
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Grief Recovery Tool Kit
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God's Spiritual Hospital
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Longing for Heaven
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Five Stages of Grief
Denial
Example: "This can't be happening, not to me!" At first, we tend to deny the loss has taken place, and may withdraw from our usual social contacts.
Anger
Example: "Why me? It's not fair!" The grieving person may be furious at the person who inflicted the hurt (even if that person is dead) or at the world for letting it happen. He may be angry with himself for letting the event take place, even if, realistically, nothing could have stopped it.
Bargaining
Example: "I will do anything . . . give up anything, if ..." Now the grieving person may make bargains with God.
Depression
Example: "I'm so sad, why bother with anything?" The person feels numb, although anger and sadness may remain underneath.
Acceptance
Example: "It's going to be okay." This is when the anger, sadness and mourning have tapered off. The person simply accepts the reality of the loss.
During a time of grief, it is common to have many conflicting feelings. Sorrow, anger, loneliness, sadness, shame, anxiety, and guilt often accompany serious losses. Having so many strong feelings can be very stressful. However, denying the feelings and failing to work through the stages of grief is harder on the body and mind than actually going through them. When people make the suggestion, "Look on the bright side," the grieving person may feel pressured to hide or deny these emotions, and that will only make the grieving process longer.
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