Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
Grieving the loss of a loved one can, at times, overwhelm us with pain, sadness, anger and other emotions. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. There are no two individuals that grieve the loss of a loved one in the same manner. Our society tells us we need to "carry on." The truth is, grief does not neatly end when you return to work, or resume your normal routine or activities. Our grief is as unique as we are. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with others who care and have also experienced the loss of someone they love is one of the most healing gifts you can give yourself. If you are interested in meeting new people and sharing your grief story along with a cup of coffee, we invite you to be part of the Grief Ministry team.
Grief Ministry helps numerous people as they struggle through a journey of grieving. We are there to talk with you and encourage you to remember your loved ones. Grieving is a time when we should not be alone, but among those who care for us. We can help each other as we try to put a new normal in our lives by talking, crying and just being there for each other. We can also help you find other support groups in the community that you can connect with.
Grief Ministry includes other types of grief that people experience such as loss of job, divorce, etc.
Grief Ministry:
- Holds support groups twice a year for those who have lost loved ones to death. The sessions run for five weeks. Anyone and everyone is invited to attend. You don't have to be a member of Hope Lutheran.
- Provides support to the grieving person or family for a full year after a loved one dies - through the use of a grief booklet, CareNotes, pastoral support, visits and the opportunity to have a Stephen Minister.
- Provides a CD of the funeral service.
- Someone from Grief Ministry attends either the visitation or the funeral of your loved one (if it is in Fargo/Moorhead).
Grief Ministry Coordinator: Ilana (701-293-7133)
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Do you get the feeling family and friends sometimes think you should be "getting over it" by now? The simple truth is that there is no getting over it. There is also no way under or around it. There is only one way to heal from your loss and that is to walk through it.
*If you are interested in a safe, caring place to share your grief story and receive comfort and support from those on a similar path, please contact Ilana, Grief Ministry Coordinator, at 701-293-7133, for more information.
CareNotes, small pamphlets that bring messages of hope and compassion to those in need, are available in the hallways at both campuses.
CareNotes Coordinators: Judy Peterson and Carolyn McLaughlin
Healing Service
"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
This passage of scripture always seems so reassuring when one has worries, cares and concerns. Whether they are spiritual, physical or mental in nature, it tells us that God wants us to bring everything to Him and He will take care of us.
All are invited to bring cares and concerns to a Healing Service on Sunday, April 13, 3:00pm at the North Campus. All are welcome to attend and are invited to bring someone who may enjoy a time of singing, worship, the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and the option of "laying on of hands," with personal prayers at the altar for anyone that desires to come forward.
After the service we invite you to a reception where there will be coffee, sweets and fellowship. There will also be individuals on hand after the service to pray with you and visit.
If you have questions, please contact Ilana at 701-293-7133. We hope to see you there! Come and bring a friend!
HopeCare makes a difference:
“Thank you for your supportive prayers by prayer groups and the prayer of the congregation for the family when my mother died. This was greatly appreciated.”
“Thanks to Hope Lutheran for things said and done during my wife’s illness and passing. She really appreciated the pastor visits and all the care.”
"Dear HopeCare, Thank you for your work in Grief Ministry and for encouraging me to attend the remainder of the last support group. Even though I only attended the last three sessions, I found it to be a very meaningful and could feel God's love through other members, and leaders. God bless you!"