A Brief Guide for Beginning and Facilitating a Grief Support Group

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

The crushing weight of losing a loved one can be an unimaginable, excruciating cross. It is not something that can be simply “gotten over;” rather, it forces a person into a whole new way of existence. Yet our Lord promises us that we are not alone — Christ Himself felt our pain on the cross, and, in addition to all that the Lord supplies in Himself through His Word and His Sacraments, He mercifully provides through the fellowship of other believers.

In this guide, created by LCMS Life Ministry, church workers and laity will receive a framework for starting a bereavement support group that keeps Christ at the center, offering a Christian approach to death and grief while giving practical support to participants.

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Promotional Kit

Additionally, materials are available to assist your congregation in promoting bereavement support groups in your congregation and community.

Flyer

Designed to reach out to members of your community and invite them to partake in the grief support group, this flyer includes fillable fields which allow you to include your specific group details and meeting times.

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Bulletin Insert

Designed to reach out to grieving members of your congregation and invite them to a grief support group, the bulletin insert includes fillable fields which allow you to include your specific group details and meeting times.

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Social Media

Designed to be shared on social media, this image can be posted and captioned with information about your support group details and meeting times.

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Bulletin Blurb

The following text can be used in your Sunday bulletin to reach members of your congregation, with fillable fields that allow you to include your specific group details and meeting times:

[CHURCH NAME] is hosting a Christ-centered, facilitated grief support group designed to listen, encourage and care for those suffering the loss of a loved one. Group members will find a Gospel-focused place to process grief, share memories and receive spiritual and emotional support. Contact [EMAIL ADDRESS] or [PHONE NUMBER] for more information and to register.

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